Abstract: A method and apparatus for photographic illumination comprising a light box having a top surface with spaced apart walls depending therefrom having an aperture in one wall thereby forming a chamber for the placement therein of an article or articles to be photographed and wherein said light box material is light diffusing. The method further comprises a camera mountable apparatus having means for securing said apparatus to a camera, means for producing illumination, means for producing light beams including fiber optics and multiple LEDs, means for varying the number of beams projected onto the photographic subject. The present invention uses two different light sources, for the photography of gemstones or the like.

Abstract: Foodstuff vending apparatus employing improved solid-state control is provided in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a processor and accompanying memory are relied upon to cause vending to occur in a programmed sequence in accord with selected vending conditions. The processor and memory are programmed in a manner to ascertain when a vending operation is about to be initiated and thereafter to invite an operator to specify a product to be vended and conditions under which such product is to be vended. Elements of the product to be vended are then dispensed, under program control, in accordance with the product designated and the conditions specified at selectable rates which are readily variable.