WO2012010914A1

WO2012010914A1 - Ultralight shell structured light bouncer and diffuser

Info

Publication number: WO2012010914A1
Application number: PCT/HU2011/000068
Authority: WO
Inventors: Péter VANICSEK
Original assignee: Vanicsek Peter
Priority date: 2010-07-21
Filing date: 2011-07-13
Publication date: 2012-01-26

Abstract

The subject of innovation is an ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer and diffuser with an ultra-light shell structure. This allows easy and quick on-the-spot mounting or dismounting on the flash or other light source. The light bouncer and diffuser provides a natural, level light effect by transferring the light emitted by the point light source emitted by the flash and diffusing it on a broader surface as well as by letting it pass through the diffuser. The ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer and diffuser set forth in this application is formed fashioned from a base panel sheet by means of folding lines and linking units. Typically, side panels (2) are folded into shape along the prefabricated folding edges (13) of the base panel (24). Then the brackets (8,9) with the linking units (10) are also folded into position along prefabricated folding edges" !4. These, together with the back panel (16), form the light channel (7). The the curved reflective surface (3) is fashioned from the base panel (24) by applying light pressure on the perforated line (15). The light bouncer (1) is then mounted on the side panels of the flash (11) by means of the mounting unit (4). The light bouncer (1) is stabilized on the flash (11) by leading the other fastening tab (5) through the fastening unit (6), then folded back and tightened. Its linking unit (12) can then be connected to the relevant linking unit (12) on the side panel (2). Then the brackets (8,9) are folded along the folding edges (14) and linked to each other by means of the fastening units (10) on them.

Description

Ultra light shell structured light bouncer

and diffuser

The subject of innovation is a light bouncer and diffuser with an ultra-light shell structure. This allows easy and quick on-the-spot mounting or dismounting on the flash or other light source. The light bouncer and diffuser provides a natural, level light effect by transferring the light emitted by the point light source emitted by the flash and spreading it on a broader surface as well as by letting it pass through the diffuser.

Light and lighting are of paramount importance in photography; they define the characteristics of the photo even more profoundly than the camera or the lenses. This is why photographers have been aiming since the very start at adapting the light source to their own needs by diffusing, concentrating or shadowing the light. As the human eye still beats even state-of-the-art imaging devices in perceiving an extended dynamic range, there has always been a need for tools to compensate for the too-wide dynamic range of light sources. As the earliest photo media had low light sensitivity, photographers had first used natural illumination (sunlight); they then switched to strong arc lamps in big studios. Photographers could break free and leave the studios only when they started to use magnesium/flashbulbs in the reflector attached to the camera. However, using magnesium was difficult and unsafe, so eventually the electric flash in its well-known modern form has been developed. The electric flash applies an electric flashlight of 5-10 cm. These are excellent devices to complement ambient available light and fill the dark areas, thus providing the necessary amount of light for good quality pictures. However, practically all flashes currently applied use relatively strong, concentrated light generated on a small surface, resulting in point illumination. It creates unpleasant, sharp contrasts and closed, black shadows - some particularly unfavorable features for portraits and photojournalism.

Several solutions have been developed in the past few decades to overcome these problems. Typical tools include reflective or semi-transparent screens and soft boxes. The latter ones are mounted in front of the flash. They close lateral light rays into a box while filtering direct light from the flashtube through some diffusive material foil, textile to soften light and fill shadows. System flashes, while easy to fit onto the shoe mount on top of the camera, simple to operate and having sophisticated controls, generate the problematic light effects as described above to an even greater extent. There are several ways to modify the light of system flashes. Most of them fall into two basic categories: light bouncers and difrusers. Light bouncers are reflective sheets mounted on the flash or other light source. Light is projected on the sheet, then bounces when reflected from the large surface and provides a more natural lighting. Diffusers are defined as semi- transparent more or less transparent screens, extended sheets of textile or foil, placed between the emitted light and the subject. As the semi-transparent layer spreads and diffuses the light in various directions, again, the result is a more natural lighting, provided by light rays arriving from a large surface. In the first case, we talk about reflected light bounce flash, in the second case, about directed diffuse light

As the required characteristics of light may literally be changing from shot to shot, the adjustable head of system flashes may be turned up and down or around to facilitate comfortable use. This is the very feature, however, that limits the size and corresponding weight of light bouncers or diffusers that may be mounted on the flash. Flash heads are designed in a way that facilitates simple turning in almost any direction. As a result, they are unable to support large, heavy structures even though the secret of ambient illumination, as explained above, lies in the use of large light bouncers or diffusers. The simplest way to overcome this difficulty is to aim the flash on the ceiling or the walls; alternatively, reflecting panels may also be used. These extended surfaces provide a uniform, scattered light. This solution, however, is unacceptable in tall rooms or with colored walls. An important aspect of using light modifiers is the catchlight they create in the human eye, catchlight being the very feature that makes the eyes come "alive". When using traditional flash, the curve of the eyeball itself reduces catchlight but in most cases even the most up-to-date system flash devices are unable to create a large enough catchlight.

By means of our invention that is based on an ultra-light shell structure to be described later on, we were able to increase the size of light bouncers and diffusers several times of that achievable by state-of-the-art techniques while reducing their weight to a fraction of that of the currently used ones. Thus relieved, the flash head is able to support the structure in any position. In one version of the shell structure design we developed, a light bouncer is facing a diffuser on the other side. This way, the different light permeability of the two elements may be combined to create optimum lighting by setting the flash head in various positions, thus altering the ratio of light passing through the two elements.

Another important aspect is the easy mountability of the light bouncer. The mounting system we used provides fast, comfortable and stable mounting, without the need of applying Velcro on the flash head. Furthermore, the tabs serving the purposes of both bracing and fitting enable the structure to take the characteristic form of the shell structure along the bends and perforated lines and allow for stable mounting. The light channel formed this way transfers light further away from the flash and thus from the lens. The significance of the light channel when compared to currently used light bouncers lies in the fact that light is reflected much stronger from the parts closer to the light source than from those located farther away. Thus, light is not distributed evenly on the light bouncer and may retain its "point source" characteristics no matter how large the reflecting surface. In the devices presented below, the light channel does not only serve the purpose of bracing the structure but also provides for an even reflection of light. Each device is self-supporting. They maintain their functional form when dismounted from the flash, or, if transportation requires so, they may be transformed into their original, two dimensional forms by loosening the fittings.

Our light bouncer and diffuser are also applicable for some of the most recent energy saving "cold light" lamps and LEDs, too.

The American patent US 4078170 describes a state-of-the-art light reflecting photo device, which, combined with a camera and a flash, creates diffuse light. The reflecting device has a portable frame supporting the flash unit. The light is thus directed upwards. The frame also holds the reflective screen above the flash unit which, facing down and forward, reflects the light emitted by the flash unit in a broad range forward. The umbrella reflector includes a flexible sheet made of reflective material and a flexible reflective frame made of wire that holds the sheet in an extended position. This reflective frame is also used to fit the sheet on the supporting frame.

The American patent US 5839006 describes a simple yet efficient device and process that is able to direct light from an adjustable flash head when the camera is held in a portrait or landscape position. The device is mounted over the lens of the camera. The camera is fitted with an adjustable flash head which in turn is fitted with a light reflecting device. The easy-to- fit light reflecting device is Velcro-mounted on the flash head. In one of the designs, the reflecting device has a shell structure. The reflecting device has a flattened part by which it may be mounted on the adjustable flash head and the actual reflective part that reflects and scatters the light of the flash, illuminating the camera's field of vision. The reflective part may also include contoured shapes providing soft, diffuse light for pictures of portrait quality, with fewer sharp shadows. The light is supplemented with an asymmetrical, semi-transparent shape. The "shell" is made of hard cast plastic, as a single piece with a reflective inner surface.

The American patent US 7360909 describes a reflecting device for the flashes of new, improved cameras. The reflecting device is light and flexible, easy to mount or dismount and it may be stored simply, by wrapping or folding. The described thin, flexible reflecting device is preformed of polyurethane foam sheet or some other suitable substance and is adjustable, usually with a concave basic design. The strength of the reflected light may be set by adjusting the shape of the reflecting device. The device may level out existing natural light or reflect the light to the ceiling, thus eliminating or filling shadows around the subject.

The common disadvantage of these solutions is that the required size and structural rigidity may be achieved only by sacrificing a lightweight and easy-to-handle design. Such a construction cannot be used as a large-surface, easy-to-mount light bouncer that may be assembled easily and quickly on site to diffuse the point illumination provided by the flash. To comply with structural rigidity requirements, developers had to choose between size and stability. Light bouncers available these days are either large but robust, or light but with a relatively limited reflective or diffusive surface, providing only partial solution to the original problem of illumination. Several designs use Velcro as a mounting tool on the flash head or the surface of the flash which wears off after a while, compromising the mounting of other devices and does not hold strong enough anyway.

Our development objective was to create a simple-to-manufacture, lightweight light bouncer combined with a large surface diffuser, which, owing to its shell structure, is rigid enough for the purpose. We aimed at designing a device that is easy and quick to mount and scatters the light of the point light source to the required extent while the diffuser part makes the illumination even more even.

While developing our device we realized that our goals may be achieved by creating an easy- to-mount, ultra-light light bouncer with a shell structure. This light bouncer should be made of light, rigid yet flexible sheets from which smaller parts are cut out along cutting lines. Assembly needs to be facilitated by prefabricated folding edges and perforated lines. The shell structure should provide for mechanical stability and rigidity, while also serving as a light channel by optimally scattering and directing light in the required direction and when properly assembled using the brackets. Its design should allow its easy and fast mounting and dismounting on the flash, by means of fastening tab s or a similarly useful fastening solution.

The rigidity of the shell structure is provided by prefabricated slanted or suitably curved folding edges and perforated lines. The required finalized shape of the light bouncer may be created by folding edges and folding the sheet along these lines. The shell structure is composed of a surface bent once or twice; this design also facilitates optimum light diffusion. The necessary rigidity of the structure is provided by the inner tension generated in the material. This way, the weight of the light bouncer could be reduced while the size of the light bouncer and the diffuser could be increased manifold, compared to currently used designs. By dyeing certain areas of the sheet as well as coating other parts with reflective, transparent or light absorbing layers, we were able to develop a light bouncer combined with a diffuser which is able to reflect and transfer light in a controlled manner. By adjusting the flash head, thus controlling the direction of the emitted light, this single device is able to create various types of illumination.

In summation, the invention is a light bouncer combined with a diffuser with an ultra-light shell structure, which is folded into shape along folding edges and perforated lines and fastened by fastening and linking units. The developed light bouncer is characterized by the following design: side panels are folded into shape along the prefabricated folding edges and perforated lines. Then the brackets with the linking units are also folded into position along prefabricated folding edges. These, together with the back panel, form the light channel that transfers the light emitted by the flash away from the lens. The curved surface of the light bouncer is fashioned along the folds that follow the prefabricated lines by applying light pressure on the perforated line. Then one of the fastening tabs is led through the fastening unit, folded back and tightened. Its linking unit can then be connected to the relevant linking unit on the side panel. The light bouncer is mounted on the flash head by means of the mounting units on its side panel. The light bouncer is mounted on the flash head by leading the other fastening tab through the fastening unit. The tab is folded back and tightened. Its linking unit can then be connected to the relevant linking unit on the side panel. Then the brackets are folded along the folding edges and linked to each other by means of the fastening units on them. Another useful way to fasten the light bouncer is to fold the brackets along the lower edge to the side panels on the opposite side or lead them across the flash head to the other side of the light bouncer where they can be fastened by Velcro, forming a strong bond around the flash head.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the light bouncer may be fashioned in a way that a semi-transparent diffuser sheet of adequate rigidity is placed into the light channel, covering its outlet.

The invention is furthermore a light bouncer with an ultra-light shell structure, folded into shape from a base panel sheet along folding edges and perforated lines and fastened by fastening parts. The developed light bouncer is characterized by the following design: side panels are folded into shape along the prefabricated folding edges and perforated lines. Then the brackets are also folded into position along prefabricated folding edges. These, together with the back panel, form the light channel. The flexible end parts and the bouncing surface are folded into shape along the perforated lines. The bouncing surface is then cocked forward and fixed in this position by folding the flexible end parts onto the bouncing surface and fasten their fastening units to the fastening units of the bouncing surface. The bouncing card is then mounted on the side walls of the flash head by means of its mounting part and fastened there by leading the fastening tab along the fourth side of the flash head and folding the tab onto the opposite side panel of the bouncing card. The tab is then fastened, and its fastening unit is connected to the fastening unit on the side panel.

The invention is furthermore a light bouncer with an ultra-light shell structure, folded into shape from a base panel sheet along folding edges and perforated lines and fastened by fastening parts. The developed light bouncer is characterized by the following design: side panels are folded into shape along the prefabricated folding edges and perforated lines. Then the brackets are also folded into position along prefabricated folding edges. These, together with the back panel and the diffuser fashioned by folding back the upper edge of the back panel form the light channel. Exploiting the different transparency of the two sides and by means of adjusting the flash head, the direction and nature of the emitted light may be controlled, thus the device serves as a light bouncer and a diffuser at the same time. The device gains its required shape by folding the side panels composed of two units and the fastening units Velcro or snap on their edges on each other and expressing a light force.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the developed light bouncer can be made out of paper 200-400g/cm², polypropylene, plastic sheet, closed cell foam, plastic foam, PVC sheet, rolled or drawn plastic sheet.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the linking unit is composed of the connective parts of Velcro or snap; it may also be made of resealabie or non-resealable adhesive tape. The connective parts of the linking unit are fastened on tabs created by incisions made into the surface, these tabs may be connected by splicing or covering one with the other.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the fastening unit of the developed light bouncer is a clip with one or two sections.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the inner surface of the light channel may have matt, reflective, transparent or semitransparent, light absorbing, white or colored coating.

In the drawings, which form a part of this specification:

Fig. 1. is the front view a potentially useful design for the invention.

Fig. 2. is the back view of the potentially useful design in Fig. 1.

Fig. 3. shows the design in Fig. 1. when partially unfolded.

Fig. 4. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, in a view where the bounce card is combined with a diffuser.

Fig. 5. shows the design in Fig 1. in a view where the bounce card combined with a diffuser is fully assembled.

Fig. 6. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, in a view where the device is fully assembled.

Fig. 7. is the back view of the design in Fig. 6.

Fig. 8. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, in a view when the device is fully assembled.

Fig. 9. shows the design of Fig. 8., partially unfolded.

Fig. 10. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, in a view when the device is fully assembled.

Fig. 11. is the back view of the design in Fig. 10.

Fig. 12. shows the design in Fig. 10, fully unfolded.

Fig. 13. is the front view of an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above. The diffuser, created by folding back the upper edge of the bounce card is in a slanted position compared to the direction of the light rays emitted by the flash. Fig. 14. is the back view of the design in Fig. 13. Fig. 15. is the front view of an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above. The diffuser, created by folding back the upper edge of the bounce card is at right angle to the direction of the light rays emitted by the flash.

Fig. 1. is the front view a potentially useful design for the invention. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are seen as well as the reflective surface 3 the back panel 16 and the brackets 8, 9 folded along the folding edges 14 of the side panels 2 and linked to each other with the linking unit 10. The mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1, complete with the fastening tabs 5 and the fastening unit 6 is also shown. The light bouncer 1 is mounted on the flash 11 by means of the mounting unit 4 in a way that the fastening tabs 5 are led through the fastening unit 6, then folded back and tightened to the linking units 12 on the mounting unit 4 of the side panels 2. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 gain their required shape by being folded along the folding edges 13 ; then pressed lightly along the perforated line 15 of the reflective surface 3.

As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light channel 7 is formed by the lower parts of the side panels 2, the back panel 16 and the linked brackets 8,9, the latter ones also having bracing and light directing functions.

Fig. 2. is the back view of the potentially useful design of Fig. 1. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are seen as well as the reflective surface 3, the back panel 16 and the mounting unit 4. As is obvious from the drawing, the light bouncer 1 is fashioned from one base panel sheet. Its side panels 2 are separated from the back panel 16 by a folding edge 13 and the reflective surface 3 is separated from the back panel 16 by a perforated line 15. Fig.2. also shows the mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1, with the fastening tab 5 fastened to the lower part of the side panel 2 by the linking unit 12. The flash 11 is also showed.

Fig. 3. shows the design of Fig. 1. when partially unfolded. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are seen as well as the reflective surface 3, the back panel 16 and brackets 8, 9 folded along the folding edges 14 of the side panels 2 with their linking units 10. As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light bouncer 1 is fashioned from one base panel sheet Its side panels 2 are separated from the back panel 16 by a folding edge 13 and the reflective surface 3 is separated from the back panel 16 by a perforated line 15. Fig.3. also shows the mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1, with the fastening tabs 5 complete with their linking units 12 and the linking parts 12 at the mounting unit 4 of the side panels 2.

Fig. 4. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, with a view where the light bouncer is combined with a diffuser. Fig. 4. shows the light bouncer 1 as fashioned according to the design in Fig 1. but with a diffuser plate 17 inserted into the light channel 7 inside the light bouncer 1 with the design as shown in Fig. 1. The shape of the diffuser plate 17 matches exactly that of the inner space of the light bouncer 1, that is the light channel 7.

Fig. 5. shows the design in Fig 1. in a view where the light bouncer combined with a diffuser is fully assembled. Fig. 5. shows the light bouncer 1 as fashioned according to the design in Fig 1. but with a diffuser plate 17 inserted into the light channel 7 inside the light bouncer 1. As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the diffuser plate 17 is inserted into the inner space of the card 1 in a way that it covers the light channel 7. Thus, the light emitted by the flash 11 reaches the space outside by leaving the light channel 7 via the diffuser plate 17.

Fig. 6. is the front view of an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are seen as well as the reflective surface 3, the back panel 16 and the brackets 8, 9 folded along the folding edges 14 of the side panels 2 and linked to each other with the linking unit 10. The mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1, complete with the fastening tabs 5 and the fastening unit 6 is also shown. The tabs created at the lower edge of the light bouncer are folded over the flash head so that they overlap. The wide lower fastening tab 5 narrows at the overlapping upper fastening tab thus allowing the thumb of the user to express pressure. The upper fastening tab 5 is then led over the fastening tab 5 on the opposite side and the side panel 2 of the light bouncer and fastened to the linking unit 12 Velcro, snap or adhesive tape on the side panel 2 by pulling strongly, thus securing stability and structural rigidity. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 gain their required shape by being folded along the folding edges 13 ; then pressed lightly along the perforated line 15 of the reflective surface 3.

As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light channel 7 in the assembled light bouncer 1 is formed by the lower parts of the side panels 2, the back panel 16 and the linked brackets 8,9, the latter ones also having bracing and light directing functions.

Fig. 7. is the back view of the design in Fig. 6. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are seen as well as the reflective surface 3, the back panel 16 and the mounting unit 4. The light bouncer 1 is fashioned from one base panel sheet. Its side panels 2 are separated from the back panel 16 by a folding edge 13 and the reflective surface 3 is separated from the back panel 16 by a perforated line 15. The drawing also shows the fastening tab 5 as folded on the side panel 2 of the light bouncer 1, providing for the required rigidity by means of the linking unit 10.

Fig. 8. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, in a view when the device is fully assembled. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are seen as well as the reflective surface 3 and the back panel 16. As is illustrated in the drawing, the reflective surface 3 is held in the right position by linking the flexible end parts 20 of the side panels 2 behind the reflective surface 3 by means of their linking units 21. The figure also shows the slightly folded brackets 8,9 that are fashioned from the extensions of the side panels 2. The brackets are linked by their linking units 10. The mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1 complete with the fastening tabs 5 and the fastening unit 6 is also shown. The light bouncer 1 is mounted on the flash 11 by means of the mounting unit 4 in a way that one of the fastening tabs 5 is led through the fastening unit 6, then folded back and tightened to the linking units 12 on the mounting unit 4 of the side panel 2. The other fastening tab 5 is led through the fastening unit 6, then folded back and tightened to the linking units 12 on the mounting unit 4 of the side panel 2. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 are held in the right position by being folded along the folding edges 13. As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light channel 7 in the assembled light bouncer 1 is formed by the side panels 2, the back panel 16 and the linked brackets 8,9, the latter ones also having bracing and light directing functions.

Fig. 10. is an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, in a view when the device is fully assembled. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are visible as well as the reflective surface 3 with its linking unit 12, the back panel 16 and brackets 8, 9 with their linking units 10. As is illustrated in the drawing, the reflective surface 3 is folded along the folding edge 23 and held in the right position by means of the flexible end parts 20 complete with their linking units 12 folded along the folding edges 22. The drawing also shows the mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1 with its fastening tab 5. The light bouncer 1 is mounted on the flash 11 by means of the mounting unit 4, by folding the fastening tab 5 extending from one of the side panels 2 onto the lower part of the other side panel 2 and fastening it there with the linking unit 12. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 are fashioned into the required position by folding them along the folding edges 13. As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light channel 7 in the assembled light bouncer 1 is formed by the side panels 2, the back panel 16 and the linked brackets 8,9.

Fig. 11. is the back view of the design in Fig. 10. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are visible as well as the reflective surface 3 with its linking unit 12 and the back panel 16. As is illustrated in the drawing, the reflective surface 3 is folded along the folding edge 23 and held in the right position by means of the flexible end parts 20 complete with their linking units 12 folded along the folding edges 22. The mounting unit 4 of the light bouncer 1 complete with the fastening tabs 5 is also shown. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 are held in the right position by being folded along the folding edges 13.

Fig. 12. shows the design in Fig. 10, fully unfolded. In the figure, the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 as fashioned from the base panel 24 are visible as well as the reflective surface 3 with its linking unit 12, the back panel 16 and the brackets 8, 9 with their linking units 10. As is illustrated in the drawing, the reflective surface 3 is separated from the back panel 16 by a folding edge 23, while the flexible end parts 20 complete with their linking units 12 are also separated from the side panels 2 by folding edges 22. The drawing also shows the fastening tab 5 with its linking unit 12 as well as the linking unit 12 on the exterior surface of the side wall 2.

Fig. 13. is the front view of an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above. In the figure, the transparent diffuser 25 as fashioned by folding back the extension of the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1, in a slanted position compared to the direction of the light rays is shown as are the side walls 2 and the reflective surface 3. The brackets 8 folded along the folding edges 13 of the side panels 2 with their linking units linked 10 are also shown. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 gain their required shape by being folded along the folding edges 13 ; then pressed lightly along the perforated line 15 of the reflective surface 3. As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light channel 7 in the assembled light bouncer 1 is formed by the lower parts of the side panels 2, the back panel 16, the fastening tabs 5 of the side panels 2 the transparent diffuser 25, a folding edge 13 and a perforated line 15, these having bracing and light directing functions. The bouncing and diffusing effects are created by the coating of the surface of the light bouncer 1, composed of areas of different transparency that scatter light in various directions in a predetermined ratio.

Fig. 14. is the back view of the design in Fig. 13. of the light bouncer 1 combined with a diffuser. In the figure, the reflective surface 3, the side panels 2 and the light channel 7 are seen. The transparent diffuser 25 is slightly folded outwards in front of the light bouncer 3. As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the closed inner space of the light channel 7 in the assembled light bouncer 1 is formed by the lower parts of the side panels 2, the back panel 16, the fastening tabs 5 of the side panels 2 the transparent diffuser 25, a folding edge 13 and a perforated line 15, these having bracing and light directing functions. The bouncing and diffusing effects are created by the coating of the surface of the light bouncer 1, composed of areas of different transparency that scatter light in various directions in a predetermined ratio.

Fig. 15. is the front view of an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above. In the figure, the transparent diffuser 25 as fashioned by folding back the extension of the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1 and by the curved perforated lines 15, in a right angle compared to the direction of the light rays emitted by the flash is seen as well as the side walls 2 and the reflective surface 3. The brackets 8 folded along the folding edges 13 of the side panels 2 with their linking units linked 10 are also shown. The side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 gain their required shape by being folded along the folding edges 13 ; then pressed lightly along the perforated line 15 of the reflective surface 3.

As is clearly illustrated in the drawing, the light channel 7 in the assembled light bouncer 1 is formed by the lower parts of the side panels 2, the back panel 16, the fastening tabs 5 of the side panels 2, the transparent diffuser 25, a folding edge 13 and a perforated line 15, these having bracing and light directing functions. The bouncing and diffusing effects are created by the coating of the surface of the light bouncer 1, composed of areas of different transparency transparent, semi-transparent, reflective, mirror-like, light absorbent that scatter light in various directions in a predetermined ratio.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1 is cut out from a base panel sheet. Then the folding edges 13, 14 and the perforated line 15 are fashioned in the regular way, as allowed by the substance of the base panel. The relevant parts of the linking unit 10 are then fitted on the brackets 8,9, like for instance the hook and loop parts of the Velcro one on each ; the relevant parts of the linking unit 12 on the fastening tabs 5 are fitted also. As for the complementing parts of the same linking unit 12, these are fitted to the bottom of the exterior of the side panel 2 at the mounting unit 4. Using this simple method, the light bouncer 1 is now ready to use.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the light bouncer 1 1 is delivered flat-packed. It will be assembled in situ, prior to use, in the following manner: the side panels 2 are folded over along the folding lines 13, then the brackets 8,9 are folded along the folding lines 14 and finally, by applying light pressure to the perforated line 15, the base panel 24 is formed into the reflective surface 3. One of the fastening tabs 5 is then led through the fastening unit 6, folded back, slightly fastened, and, using the linking unit 12, the fastening tab 5 is then linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2.

When assembling the light bouncer 2, a shell structure is formed by the side panels 2, the reflective surface 3, the back panel 16 and the interconnected brackets 8,9, which guarantees the mechanical stability of the light bouncer 1.

When assembled in this manner, the light bouncer 1 is in its prepared pre-use state and the light bouncer 1 can be mounted on the flash 11 in very little time. When fitting the light bouncer 1 to the flash 11, as a first step the light bouncer 1 is to be placed on the side panels of the flash 11 along the mounting unit 4, and is then stabilized with the mounting unit 4 by leading the other fastening tab 5 through the fastening unit 6, then folding it back and tightening so that the light bouncer 1 is perceivably fastened to the flash 11 in a proper way by means of the mounting unit 4. Then, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2. In another advantageous functional application of the solution offered by the invention, the extended fastening tab 5 is led over the flash and light bouncer 1 to the other side and it is fastened to the side panel 2 using the linking unit 10 Velcro, snap.

The mounting procedure set forth above allows the fastening of the light bouncer 1 to the flash so tightly that, when holding the light bouncer 1, the whole weight of the flash 11 may be supported by the mounting part. In the next step, the brackets 8,9 are folded over each other and fastened by means of the linking unit 10, thereby providing the final shape of the light channel 7 and the rigidity of the light bouncer 1. The process set forth above shows that the mounting of the light bouncer 1 on the flash 11 consists of three very simple, fast to carry out tasks. The placing of the light bouncer 1 on the flash 11, the tightening of the fastening tab 5 and the linking of the linking unit 10.

Dismounting the light bouncer 1 from the flash 11 is carried out by performing the same three quick tasks in a reverse order. If the light bouncer 1 need not be flattened out in order to be transported, it is sufficient to undo one of the linking units 10, and the light bouncer 1, while its shape is maintained, can remain standing, or be suspended. In this instance, in order to re- fasten, just one task needs to be completed.

If so required and in the instance of the light bouncer 1 set forth above, a diffuser 17 may be inserted into the light bouncer 1 in such a manner that the light channel 7 is covered by it. The concentrated light emitted by the flash 11 can be even more evenly spread thanks to the light bouncer 1 and the diffuser 17 placed in the light's path.

In another advantageous functional realization of the solution offered by the invention set forth above the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1 is cut out from a base panel sheet. The folding lines 13,19 are fashioned in the regular way, as allowed by the substance of the base panel 24. The relevant parts of the linking unit 10 are then fitted on the brackets 8,9, then the relevant parts of the linking unit 12 on the fastening tabs 5 are fitted also. As for the complementing parts of the same linking unit 12, these are fitted to the exterior of the side panel 2 at the mounting unit 4.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the light bouncer 1 is delivered flat-packed. It will be assembled in situ, prior to use, in the following manner: the angled transition surfaces 18 are folded over along the folding lines 13, then the side panels 2 are folded over along the folding lines 19. As the next step, one of the fastening tabs 5 is led through the fastening unit 6, folded back and slightly tightened. Then, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2.

When assembling the light bouncer 1, a shell structure is formed by the side panels 2, the back panel 16 and the angled transition surface 18, which guarantees the mechanical stability of the light bouncer 1.

When assembled in the above manner, the light bouncer 1 is in its prepared pre-use state, and the light bouncer 1 can be mounted on the flash 11 in very little time. When mounting the light bouncer 1 on the flash 11, as a first step the light bouncer 1 is to be placed on the side panels of the flash 11 along the mounting unit 4, and is then stabilized with the mounting unit 4 by leading the other fastening tab 5 through the fastening unit 6, then folding it back and tightening so that the light bouneer 1 is perceivably fastened to the flash 11 in a proper way by means of the mounting unit 4. Then, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2.

In an advantageous functional realization of the solution offered by the invention set forth above the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1 is cut out from a base panel sheet. The folding line 13 is fashioned in the regular way, as allowed by the substance of the base panel 24. The relevant parts of the linking unit 12 are then fitted on the fastening tabs 5. As for the complementing parts of the same linking unit 12, these are fitted to the exterior of the side panel 2 at the mounting unit 4. In the next step, the appropriate units of the linking parts 21 are attached to the appropriate side of the flexible end parts 20 of the side panels 2.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the light bouncer 1 is delivered flat-packed. It will be assembled in situ, prior to use, in the following manner: the side panels 2 are folded over along the folding lines 13. As the next step, one of the fastening tabs 5 is led through the fastening unit 6, folded and slightly tightened. The linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is then connected to the linking unit 12 on the interior of the side panel 2. Finally the reflective surface 3 is slightly cocked forward and fixed in this position by connecting the flexible end parts 20 behind the reflective surface 3 by means of their linking units 21.

When assembling the light bouncer 1, a shell structure is formed by the side panels 2, the back panel 16, the interconnected brackets 8,9 and the flexible end parts 20 which are connected after the reflective surface 3 is cocked forwards, which shell structure guarantees the mechanical stability of the light bouncer 1.

When assembled in the above manner, the light bouncer 1 is in its prepared pre-use state, and the light bouncer 1 can be mounted on the flash 11 in very little time. When mounting the light bouncer 1 on the flash 11, as a first step the light bouncer 1 is to be placed on the side panels of the flash 11 along the mounting unit 4 and is then stabilized via the mounting unit 4 by leading the other fastening tab 5 through the fastening unit 6, then folding it back and tightening so that the light bouncer 1 is perceivably fastened to the flash 11 in a proper way by means of the mounting unit 4. Then, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2. Finally, the brackets 8,9 are folded over each other and connected by means of their linking units 10.

In an advantageous functional realization of the solution offered by the invention set forth above the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1 is cut out from a base panel sheet. The folding edges 13,14,22,23 are fashioned in the regular way, as allowed by the substance of the base panel 24. In the next step, one part of the linking unit 12 is placed on the inside aspect of the fastening tab 5, while the complementing part of the same linking unit 12 is fastened to the mounting unit 4 at the base of the exterior of the base panel 2 on the opposite side. Furthermore, a set of the parts of the linking units 12 is fastened to the exterior of the reflective surface 3, while the complementing parts of the linking units 12 are attached to the internal surfaces of the flexible end parts 20. The complementing parts of the linking units 10 are also fastened to the brackets 8,9.

In an advantageous specific application of the solution offered by the invention set forth above, the light bouncer 1 is delivered flat-packed. It will be assembled in situ, prior to use, in the following manner: the side panels 2 are folded over along the folding lines 13, the flexible end parts 20 are folded along the folding lines 22 and the reflective surface 3 is folded along the folding line 23. In the next step, the reflective surface 3 is cocked forward along the folding line 23 and then fixed in this position by folding the flexible end parts 20 onto the reflective surface 3 and fastening the reflective surface 3 to the flexible end parts 20 by means of the linking units 12 on the flexible end parts 20.

When assembling the light bouncer 1, a shell structure is formed by the side panels 2, the back panel 16, and the flexible end parts 20 folded onto the reflective surface 3, which shell guarantees the mechanical stability of the light bouncer 1.

When assembled in the above manner, the light bouncer 1 is in its prepared pre-use state, and the light bouncer 1 can be mounted on the flash 11 in very little time. When fitting the light bouncer 1 to the flash 11, as a first step the light bouncer 1 is to be placed on the side panels of the flash 11 along the mounting unit 4, and is then stabilized via the mounting unit 4 by leading the fastening tab 5 across the fourth side of the flash, over to the side panel 2 on the opposite side and tightening so that the light bouncer 1 is perceivably fastened to the flash 11 in a proper way by means of the mounting unit 4. Then, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2 and the linking units 10 of the brackets 8,9 are connected.

The light bouncer 1, set forth herein, is cut out from a base panel sheet and performs a number of different functions: when formed along the folding lines it lends rigidity and fixes in place the device it is attached to and it directs, bounces and diffuses light. The brackets 8,9 themselves perform a number of functions: in part they lend rigidity to the shell structure, in part they direct the light from the flash 11 to the reflective surface 3, and finally they prevent the concentrated reflection and direct interference of the light emitted by the flash 11.

The mounting unit 4 in part fixes in place the light bouncer 1 on the flash 11 and simultaneously stabilizes the shell-structure of the whole light bouncer 1 by holding it in an extended position.

The light bouncer 1, by directing the emitted, diffuse and directed light through the light channel 7 above the level of the lens, whether the camera is in portrait or landscape position, ensures that the shadow cast by the object photographed is cast below the level of the lens. As a result, and thanks to the increased reflective surface, the lighting will be more pleasant and professional for both landscape and portrait aspect photos. The increased reflective surface is due to the ultra-lightweight structure of the light bouncer 1 set forth herein.

A useful manufacturing solution is to develop the light bouncer 1 set forth here by applying different coating to the two sides of the base panel 24. Each of these surfaces works to alter the quality and tone of the colors and as a result and in accordance with the construction devised, the light bouncer 1 may be assembled in two different manners, thereby producing two different lighting effects. The coating may be glossy, matt, reflective silver or gold, white or colored.

In the case of the light bouncer 1, the fastening tabs 5 of the mounting unit 4 are also developed from the base panel 24, alongside the other elements of the light bouncer 1. If so required, however, the fastening tab s 5 can be made from a separate sheet. In this case, he fastening tab s 5 should be attached to the mounting unit 4 properly.

The material of the diffuser set 17 forth herein: a semi-transparent material of the necessary rigidity. The interior surface of the base panel 24 of the light bouncer 1 as viewed from the direction of the light channel 7 is matt or reflective. The material of the light bouncer 1 set forth herein: paper 200-400g/cm², polypropylene, plastic sheet, closed cell foam, plastic foam, PVC sheet, rolled or drawn plastic sheet. The linking units 10,2,21 are composed of connective Velcro or snap parts, inter-linkable ears created by incisions made into the sheet, or adhesives. The fastening unit 6 is a regular two or three-segment clip.

An advantage of the invention set forth herein is that the spot light emitted by the flash is spread, thereby creating a softer, more natural and more even light effect. Another advantage presented by the invention is that due to its structure, the light bouncer is easy and quick to assemble, it can be mounted tightly and securely even in the most critical situations, allowing the photographer replace heavy, large or cumbersome light bouncing devices. A further advantage is that it can be assembled and dismantled quickly, furthermore, its reflective surface is substantially larger than the that usually found in light bouncers of a similar category.

Glossary:

1 - light bouncer

2 - side panel

3 - reflective surface

4 - mounting unit

5 - fastening tab

6 - fastening unit

7 - light channel

8 - bracket

9 - bracket

10 - linking unit Velcro, snap 11 - flash

12 - linking unit

13 - folding line

14 -folding line

15 - perforated line

16 - back panel

17 - diffuser

18 - angled transition surface 19 - folding line

0 - flexible end part 1 - linking unit

2 - folding line

3 - folding line

4 - base panel

5 - semi-transparent diffuser

Claims

The embodiment of the invention in wffi an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1. An ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer, which is developed from a flexible flat base panel and is fashioned from this base panel by means of folding lines, perforated lines and linking units

in such manner that

side panels 2 are folded into shape along the prefabricated folding edges 13 of the base panel 24; then the brackets 8,9 with the linking units 10 are also folded into position along prefabricated folding edges 14 and these, together with the back panel 16, form the light channel 7;

then the curved reflective surface 3 is fashioned from the base panel 24 by applying light pressure on the perforated line 15;

then one of the fastening tabs 5 is led through the fastening unit 6, folded back and tightened, its linking unit 12 can then be connected to the relevant linking unit 12 on the side panel 2; the light bouncer 1 is then mounted on the side panels of the flash 11 by means of the mounting unit 4; the light bouncer 1 is stabilized on the flash 11 by leading the other fastening tab 5 through the fastening unit 6, then folded back and tightened; its linking unit 12 can then be connected to the relevant linking unit 12 on the side panel 2; then the brackets 8,9 are folded along the folding edges 14 and linked to each other by means of the fastening units 10 on them.

2. A ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer 1 set forth in claim 1. wherein a diffuser 17, ideally made of a suitably rigid semi-transparent material, is inserted into the light channel 7 of the light bouncer 1 in such a way that the outlet of the light channel's 7 is covered.

3. A light channel, which is a closed channel bordered by the brackets 8 and the side panel 2, which directs the light emitted from the flash 11, and is fashioned by means of the folding lines 14 and the linking units 10 of the base panel, in such manner that

the angled transition surfaces 18 are folded from the base panel 24 along the folding lines 14 and the side panels 2 are folded along the folding lines 19 which, together with the back panel 16 and the brackets 8, 9 fastened by their linking units 10, form the light channel 7.

4. An ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer fashioned from a base panel sheet by means of folding lines and linking units,

in such manner that

the side panels 2 are folded along the prefabricated folding lines 13 on the base panel 24, forming, together with the back panel 16, the light channel 7;

in the next step, the reflective surface 3 is cocked forward slightly and then the linking units 21 of the flexible end parts 20 are connected behind the reflective surface 3;

then one of the fastening tabs 5 is led through the fastening unit 6, folded back and slightly tightened; then, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the interior of the side panel 2;

then the light bouncer 1 is mounted on the side panels of the flash 11 by means of its mounting unit 4; the light bouncer 1 is stabilized on the flash 11 by folding the tabs created at the lower edge of the light bouncer 1 over the flash head so that they overlap; the wide lower fastening tab 5 narrows at the overlapping upper fastening tab 5 thus allowing the thumb of the user to express pressure; the upper fastening tab 5 is then led over the fastening tab 5 on the opposite side and the side panel 2 of the light bouncer and fastened to the linking unit 12 Velcro, snap, hook or adhesive tape on the side panel 2 by pulling strongly, thus securing stability and structural rigidity.

5. An ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer fashioned from a base panel sheet, by means of folding lines and linking units,

in such manner that the side panels 2 are folded along the prefabricated folding lines 13 on the base panel 24, and the brackets 8, 9 are folded along the folding lines 14; these, together with the back panel 16 form the light channel 7; the flexible end parts 20 are folded along the folding lines 22 and the reflective surfaces is folded along the folding line 23;

the reflective surface 3 is then cocked forward and fixed in this position by folding the flexible end parts 20 over the reflective surface 3 and the linking units 12 on the flexible end parts 20 are linked to the linking units 12 of the reflective surface 3;

the light bouncer 1 is then placed on the side panels of the flash 11 along the mounting unit 4, and is then stabilized via the mounting unit 4 by leading the fastening tab 5 across the fourth side of the flash, over to the side panel 2 on the opposite side and after tightening it, the linking unit 12 of the fastening tab 5 is linked to the linking unit 12 on the side panel 2.

6. An ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer and diffuser fashioned from a base panel sheet by means of folding lines, perforated lines and linking units,

in such manner that

the side panels 2 are folded along the prefabricated folding lines 13 on the base panel 24, and the brackets 8, 9 are folded along the folding lines 14, which, together with the back panel 16 form the light channel 7, and the flexible end parts 20 are folded along the folding lines 22, and the reflective surface 3 is folded along the folding line 23;

the semi-transparent diffuser surface, placed across the path of the light emitted by the flash, the side panels 2 and reflective surface 3, are fashioned by folding back the extension of the base panel 24 and applying a slight pressure on the perforated lines 15 and bending; the stabilizing brackets 8 situated along the folding lines 13 of the side panels 2 are connected to the side panel 2 via linking units 10 on the two opposite sides of the flash 11; the side panels 2 of the light bouncer 1 are folded along the folding lines 13 and perforated lines 15, while the reflective surface 3 is positioned by applying slight downward pressure along the perforated line 15;

when the light bouncer 1 is fully assembled, the closed form, which stabilizes the structure and directs light, is formed by the light channel 7, the lower parts of the side panels 2, the back panel, the fastening tab 5 and the semi-transparent diffuser 25, the folding line 13 and the perforated line 15.

7. A ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer defined in claims 1-7 wherein the linking units 10,12,21 are complementing Velcro parts, complementing snap parts, complementing connecting hook parts, re-sealable or non-re-sealable adhesive tapes, or inter-linkable or overlapping tabs, or tabs made by making an incision in the surface.

8. A ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer defined in claims 1-8 wherein the fastening tabs 5 are fastened by being led through the fastening unit and tightened in two directions, or said fastening tabs 5 are fastened by overlapping each other and tightened across the flash 11 before being connected by the linking unit 12.

9. A ultra-lightweight shell structured light bouncer defined in claims 1-9 wherein the surfaces of the base panel 24, the light channel 7 or the semi-transparent diffuser 25 may be glossy, matt, reflective, transparent and semi-transparent, light absorbent, white, reflective silver, reflective gold, or colored, striped.