Abstract: A one-time-use camera comprising a filmstrip to be successively exposed in the camera is characterized in that frangible members in the camera operate in conjunction with successive exposure of the filmstrip and are capable of being incrementally destroyed after each exposure of the filmstrip to prevent reuse of the frangible members, when the filmstrip is completely exposed, and a breaking device independent of the frangible members incrementally destroys the frangible members after each exposure of the filmstrip.

Abstract: An automatic lighting system simplifies reproduction of desired lighting conditions by use of a computer which compares characteristics of an actual subject to prestored data representing light locations for preferred lighting of a similar mimic subject, and orients mounted lighting fixtures accordingly. A plurality of light fixtures are mounted for movement on frame. Ideal locations of the light fixtures are determined for mimic subjects of various characteristics by a skilled photographer. The location and illumination data are then stored in computer memory. When an actual subject is placed in the same position as the mimic subject for photographing thereof, data for a mimic subject having characteristics closest to the actual subject are selected from the prestored data, and the light fixtures are automatically oriented accordingly in response to computer control.

Abstract: An automatic lighting system simplifies reproduction of desired lighting conditions by use of a computer which compares characteristics of an actual subject to prestored data representing light locations for preferred lighting of a similar mimic subject, and orients mounted lighting fixtures accordingly. A plurality of light fixtures are mounted for movement on frame. Ideal locations of the light fixtures are determined for mimic subjects of various characteristics by a skilled photographer. The location and illumination data are then stored in computer memory. When an actual subject is placed in the same position as the mimic subject for photographing thereof, data for a mimic subject having characteristics closest to the actual subject are selected from the prestored data, and the light fixtures are automatically oriented accordingly in response to computer control.

Abstract: A lighting system for camera comprising light irradiation means which possesses plural luminous objects arranged circularly concentric to a camera lens, and cylindrical shield parts to restrain light from outside arranged between the camera and an object to be photographed.

Abstract: A lighting system for a surgical operating room comprises a light source for emitting electromagnetic radiation, a support for holding the light source above an operating table in the operating room, the light source being movably mounted to the support, and a drive operatively coupled to the light source for automatically moving the light source relative to the support. An activator or control disposed in proximity to the operating table is operatively connected to the drive for controllably energizing the drive in response to manipulations by a surgeon working at the operating table.

Abstract: A luminescent fixture for providing sustained illumination suitable for television, video and film production includes a plurality of parallel mercury vapor luminescent lamp tubes aligned in close proximity in a common plane bisecting an acute concave angle defined by high reflectivity facing surfaces of a pair of longitudinal reflector panels. A plurality of separate electronic ballasts located at the base of the extending reflector panels provide a plurality of unsynchronized electrical current pulse trains each for exciting pulsed ultraviolet light emissions from Hg vapor within a particular set of lamp tubes at a rate sufficient to excite/stimulate sustained luminescent light emission from the phosphors in the emulsion coating lining the interior of the light tubes, i.e.

Abstract: A photographic light comprises a main reflector with a light aperture, which is closed by a diffuser, and light sources, arranged in the photographic light casing and emitting luminous rays that reach the diffuser. A portion of the diffuser is exposed to the luminous rays of at least one second light source which reach the diffuser in addition to the luminous rays of at least one first light source. The additional second light source creates an area of increased light concentration at the diffuser. During the photographic step the photographic light is arranged such that the mat gloss objects to be photographed are positioned in the area of the increased light concentration, thereby generating strong reflections at the mat gloss surfaces, which are easily discernable from the surrounding areas.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a unique banklight apparatus and a method for uniform diffuse illumination of large photographic subjects. The banklight includes a reflecting panel, multiple lines of light source rows and diffusing panels for providing uniform illumination of subjects.

Abstract: A lighting environment for photography provides light completely around an object to be photographed. A circular diffusing screen forms the inner wall of a light box, and lights are mounted in the light box to illuminate the diffusing screen. The lights are variable in intensity so the light level around the diffusing screen can be varied. The light box is carried on cables that are individually adjustable so the height and the attitude of the light box can be varied.

Abstract: A method of generating a light source suitable for television studios or video production facilities with high speed flourescent lighting devices.

Abstract: Adapter modules are provided for use with different types of video cameras and associated battery packs to energize the cameras and also light units from the battery packs. Each module includes interconnection means for mating with those of the cameras and associated battery packs and each module includes electrical circuitry for applying proper operating voltages to the cameras and light units. The electrical circuitry includes a voltage converter circuit, which may be either a down-converter or an up-converter.

Abstract: A photographic flash lighting unit includes a tubular housing which is preferably hexagonal in cross-section and is defined by a plurality of elongate side faces, each of the side faces are provided with a coupling formation and are divided into a first plurality of faces having a male coupling formation, and a second plurality of faces having a female coupling formation adapted to matingly engage the male formations of like flash units, the faces are arranged upon the housing so that the male and female coupling formations alternate thereon. Locking members are provided on selected faces of the housing to prevent relative movement of matingly engaged housings. The housing is further provided with a flash lamp and a connector and associated circuitry to enable a photographic power supply to be connected to the housing for energization of the flash. An optional adapter cord allows the unit to be powered by power supplies of domestic as well as foreign manufacture.

Abstract: Illumination devices for an inspection system which holds the article to be inspected in a particular location and having light emitting diodes disposed in a part spherical array to cause light to converge upon a restricted field of view in which the article is located. The device is of particular use for illuminating small articles which need to be inspected. The light emitting diodes are preferably operated selectively in groups to provide different light patterns upon the article under inspection.

Abstract: A slit exposure type illuminating device mainly applicable to a color electrophotographic copier and using a plurality of lamps includes a single reflector which is provided with a plurality of openings for inserting the lamps. The lamps are arranged in an array along the length of the reflector. One of the lamps is positioned on an optical axis which extends through the center of the reflector with respect to the lengthwise direction of the reflector. The lamps are divided into a first and a second lamp groups in each of which they are arranged symmetrically with respect to the optical axis and individually spaced by predetermined distances from the optical axis. Current is fed either independently or simultaneously to the two different lamp groups. The openings of the reflector are each so adjustable in position and dimension as to prevent the bulb of each lamp from intercepting light.

Abstract: A collapsible fluorescent tube fixture comprises a frame having a pair of spaced apart tube end supports each carrying a row of sockets, each socket being for receiving electrodes of one end of a fluorescent tube, and a scissors assembly connected between the supports for permitting the supports to move together into a storage position and to accommodate various length tubes and apart into a use position. Fluorescent tubes can be engaged between the sockets of the two supports with the supports in their use position. A boom has one end connected to the scissors assembly and an opposite end which carries an electrical ballast. The ballast is electrically connected to the sockets and may serve not only to electrically ballast the fluorescent tube but also to mechanically balance the weight of the frame. A pivot clamp connected intermediate the ends of the boom can be used to mount the boom on a tripod or other support structure.

Abstract: There is disclosed an improved camera and light grip combination, including a grip handle formed by a base, a grip portion upstanding from the base, the grip portion having an internal tubular chamber, a tubular member extending upwardly from the grip portion and having an internal tubular chamber in registry with the internal tubular chamber of the grip portion, and an elevator bar telescopically carried within the internal tubular chambers of the grip portion and tubular member, the base provided with a camera mount chamber formed therein and having disengageable lock means associated therewith, a camera mount formed by a mount bar for accepting a camera in disengageable engagement, and a lock tongue formed integrally with the mount bar and adapted for locking engagement with the camera mount chamber by disengageable lock means, and a universal head fixedly secured to the top end of the elevator bar, the universal head adapted to carry various camera accessories in disengageable engagement.

Abstract: A modular, composable lighting projector for illumination from the ground in theatres, or in photographic, motion-picture and television studios, and the like, said lighting projector consisting of a housing that shows a small window in its front side, which window incorporates the bulb-mirror set, as well as louvers for ventilation in its top side, said projector being characterized in that it comprises hinge receiving means on a back upright edge, hinge insertion means on the other back upright edge, a hooking device fastened near a lower front corner and hooking means complementary to said hooking device at a position close to the other lower front corner.

Abstract: A miniaturized multilamp photoflash array includes a printed circuit board with a common circuit extending along one edge and a plurality of contact pads along an opposite edge and a plurality of flashlamps mounted in a direction normal to the edges of the circuit board.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting an image area of a thin plate is provided having a housing having a vertical side plate at one side thereof, the vertical side plate having an opening; a door movable to close/open the opening; a holder for holding the thin plate in a location which covers the opening when the door is closed; a camera mounted inside the housing so as to oppose the vertical side plate; the florescent lamps mounted on the inner surfaces of upper and lower plates and side plates of the housing which are perpendicular to the vertical side plate so that illumination directions of the florescent lamps are directed toward the thin plate.

Abstract: An exposure device suitable for use in a copying machine includes a gutter-like mirror composed of an upper mirror and a lower mirror so that light projected from a light source onto the lower mirror is reflected to illuminate the surface of an original document in the pattern of a strip but light projected from the light source onto the upper mirror is reflected first onto the lower mirror and then reflected again by the lower mirror to illuminate the surface of the original document in the pattern of the strip. At least four small bulbs are arranged as the light source along the length of the gutter-like mirror and the envelopes of the small bulbs are frosted only at portions through which the internal filaments of the small bulbs face on the lower mirror.

Abstract: A multilamp photoflash array responsive to either a relatively high or relatively low pulse potential includes normally open (N/O) switches formed from an admixture including silver carbonate and/or silver oxide, titanium dioxide, a blended binder and a sulfur compound in the range of about 0.001 to 5.0 percent by weight and selected from the group consisting of elemental sulfur and low solubility sulfides.

Abstract: A multilamp photoflash array responsive to either a relatively high or relatively low pulse potential includes normally open (N/O) switches formed from an admixture including sliver carbonate and/or silver oxide, titanium dioxide, a blender binder and aluminum hydroxide. Also, enhanced results are provided by the inclusion of a sulfur compound in the range of about 0.001 to 5.0 percent by weight within the admixture.

Abstract: A miniaturized multilamp photoflash array including a transparent plastic cover member with the cover member having at least one prismatic barrier divider extending outwardly therefrom between a pair of parallel arrayed flashlamps. The prismatic barrier divider serves as a shield whereby sympathetic flashing of adjacent flashlamps is reduced.

Abstract: A small size camera is adapted for use with various types of flash units, such as a compact multi-lamp flash and a larger flip-flash. The various flash types are to be located in respective operative positions relative to the camera body to space them at least a minimum distance from the camera lens to substantially avoid red eye, and have distinguishable means indicative of their respective positions. The camera includes a flash holder movable to a plurality of positions, corresponding to the operative positions of the various flash types, to locate a flash unit received by the holder at least the minimum distance from the lens. Sensing means in the camera distinguishes between the indicative means of the various flash types to determine the position of the flash holder for locating a flash unit in its operative position.

Abstract: An electronic flash apparatus has a plurality of flashlight projectors comprising flash discharge tubes and reflecting shades for said discharge tubes which projectors are juxtaposed with an opening of each reflecting shade substantially in the same direction, being the depth of said reflecting shades in the projectors constructed so as to be able to establish the substantially same amount of the flashlight emission as with the conventional electronic flash apparatus can be greatly reduced as compared therewith, thereby minimizing the size of the apparatus. In addition, the apparatus is further minimized by disposing a main capacitor for the flashlight emission of the flash discharge tube so as to project into a recess formed between adjacent ones of the plurality of reflecting shades.

Abstract: A portable, variable position light having a main vertical shaft and folding legs on the bottom thereof for holding such main shaft in a vertical position when in use. A pair of arms having elbows therein are attached to the main shaft such that it can be positioned vertically at any position along the length of the main shaft and whereby the angle of the arms can be adjusted to various desired angles with respect to the main shaft. The arm members have elbows therein for allowing the pivoting of a first inner part to a second outer part and whereby the elbow has a mechanism thereon for locking such second outer part with respect to the first inner part whereby the angle between the first and second parts can be maintained in whatever position desired. A standard light clamp has a locking mechanism attached to one end thereof for insuring that such lights do not slip off of the arm members.

Abstract: A multilamp photoflash array and fabrication process is provided wherein electrically conductive leads of a plurality of flashlamps are embedded in and wrapped about the ends of a plastic reflector unit which is, in turn, affixed to a circuit board to provide contact between the bent leads and a printed circuit on the circuit board.

Abstract: In an electronic flash device for use in a still camera, a calculation circuit means calculates a ratio of the amounts of light to be emitted by a plurality of flash light tubes on the basis of color temperature information and control circuit means controls the emission of light of the respective flash light tubes in such a manner that the ratio of light amount emitted from the respective flash light tubes corresponds to the ratio calculated by the calculation circuit means.

Abstract: A moisture barrier for radiation-responsive switches which includes an admixture of particles and forms a part of a multilamp photoflash array comprises a thin, radiation-transparent and/or translucent coating which is absorbed into the switches and envelopes the individual particles of the admixture.

Abstract: A special front lighting system for use in a relatively narrow room in which a large track mounted camera photographs subjects held on a subject holder. A pair of light sets located on support panels on opposite sides of the optical axis of the camera emit diverging light beams in opposite directions toward the side walls of the room. Mirrors are situated in the paths of the light beams to reflect light onto the subject holder with the same effect as imaginary light sets emitting beams directly toward the subject holder from locations outside of the room beyond the side walls. Light containment shields extend between each light support panel and mirror. The components of the lighting system are contained on self-supporting stands, each of which includes one light support panel, one light shield and one mirror panel hinged or otherwise held in a fixed position together.

Abstract: A photoflash unit employing an optical system or apparatus with improved center beam candle power seconds and zonal lumen seconds from the flash lamp therein, said unit also employing a minimized utilization ratio of lamp-to-package cross-sectional area. Each individual lamp capsule comprises a reflective element, a refractive element (lens), and at least one photoflash lamp (light source). The lens provides for lamp shred magnification so as to fill the cell (capsule) width to thus provide maximum transfer of light to the subject on axis. One embodiment has the light source fused (glued) to the reflector and lens while a second embodiment has an air interface between the source and the optical elements. In both embodiments, the lens is aspheric and substantially covers both the reflector and source.

Abstract: A modular photographic flash system includes a plurality of housings, some possibly empty and some containing flash units, interconnected to form a desired flash unit array. Each housing includes a hollow cylindrical member substantially square in transverse cross-sectional outline with two adjacent walls having dovetail tongues thereon and the other two walls having dovetail grooves to accommodate interfitting of adjacent housings. A latch member is movable into and out of each dovetail groove for engagement in an associated slot in the tongue interfitted therewith, the latch being operated by a spring-biased actuator rod carried in a channel formed in the inner surface of the housing.

Abstract: An electronic flash unit assembly having an electronic flash module separate from a power and control module. An assembly of articulated flash arms supports the flash module spaced from a camera. A power cord interconnects the power and control module with the flash module so that power is transmitted to the electronic flash tube from the power and control module when the power and control module is triggered. Preferably, a power cord connects the power and control module to the camera so that triggering of the module occurs upon movement of a shutter release member of the camera. The power and control module is connected to the tripod socket of the camera and supports the flash arm assembly. Alternatively, a mounting plate is connected to the tripod socket of the camera and supports the flash arm assembly, with the power and control module being in a separate unit.

Abstract: An electrically-activated, miniature photoflash unit which includes a plurality (e.g., ten) of subminiature high voltage flash lamps arranged in a planar array. A singular mounting tab protrudes from the unit's housing and serves to connect the entire array when the tab is electrically connected to a power source (e.g., piezoelectric crystal) typically associated with many of today's cameras. Each of the lamps is inverted with respect to the tab and also serve to provide a low resistance circuit path therethrough subsequent to activation thereof.

Abstract: In a lens barrel to which a flashlight-emitting device is mounted or may be mounted and which enables a very proximate object to be photographed, there is provided a light-intercepting member interposed in the path of the light emitted by the flashlight-emitting device in response to the operation of a lens optical system for rendering the lens barrel capable of effecting very proximate photography, the light-intercepting member being for intercepting part of the light emitted from the flashlight-emitting device and travelling toward the optical axis of the lens optical system.

Abstract: A miniaturized multilamp photoflash array includes a housing member having a back portion with a printed electrical circuit on one surface thereof and a light transmittable front portion affixed to the back portion with a plurality of flashlamps affixed to and supported by the array and each flashlamp having a pair of electrical conductors in electrical contact with the printed circuit on one surface of the back portion of the housing member.

Abstract: A multi-lamp photoflash unit has a plastic housing member with a back portion having a plurality of cavities formed to receive a reflector unit wherein is disposed a plurality of flashlamps and a light transmitting front portion formed to fold over and enclose the flashlamps and is characterized by the improvement wherein at least one part of one of the front and back portions of the plastic housing is folded over the edge of the other, aligned in parallel with and sealed to the other of the front and back portions to provide a shear-type seal. The multi-lamp photoflash unit is fabricated by a process wherein the front and back layers are contacted, one is folded over, aligned with and sealed to the other by spaced spot seals.

Abstract: A multilamp photoflash unit includes a housing member having a plurality of lamp-receiving cavities of a relatively opaque material with a reflective surface adjacent the lamp whereby back radiation from the lamp is reduced. Also, a reflector having cavities of opaque pigmented plastic resin material and a reflective surface may be disposed within a plastic housing and serve to inhibit back radiation from a lamp.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device in connection with cameras for the support of flashlight units (14) on the socket (2) of the lens of the camera, so that the respective flashlight unit (14) will be supported in a laterally displaced manner relative to the central axis (7) of the lens.By means of the present invention a device is obtained, which among other things is suitable to use in connection with macrophotography, as the device can be handled in a rapid, simple and effective manner, and as the flashlight units (14) used will be located near to the front of the lens and follow the movements thereof.The device comprises a holder (3), which is arranged to be attached to the socket (2) of the lens of the camera at the front portion of the same.

Abstract: A multilamp photoflash array includes a plurality of interdigitated flashlamps connected to a printed circuit board and disposed within a housing member having a pair of substantially identical light transmitting side members affixed to one another and thermoformed from a single plastic sheet. The array is fabricated by a process wherein a printed circuit board is formed, flashlamps are electrically connected thereto, a housing member is thermoformed from a single plastic sheet, folded and sealed to itself and to the printed circuit board to provide an envelope containing the flashlamps.

Abstract: A flashlamp unit for individual and sequential firing of flashlamps includes a pair of flashlamps connected in an electrical circuit with a radiation-responsive N/O arc gap switch in series connection with one of said pair of flashlamps and including an arc gap having a radiation-responsive material thereover and therebetween.

Abstract: A reflector unit for a relatively rigid housing member of a multi-lamp photoflash unit includes a plurality of cavities having a back surface formed to nest in the cavities of the housing member and a front surface having reflector material thereon and formed to receive a flashlamp.

Abstract: A multi-lamp photoflash unit includes a housing member having a plurality of spaced cavities in a back portion and a light transmittable front portion formable to enclose the cavities, a reflector unit having a multiplicity of spaced cavities formed to nest in the cavities of the housing member, and an aperture extending through the reflector unit and housing member to provide venting from the cavities to the exterior of the housing member.Also, the multi-lamp photoflash unit is fabricated by a process which includes the forming of a housing member having a back portion with a plurality of spaced cavities and a foldable light transmitting front portion, a reflector unit having a multiplicity of spaced cavities formed to nest in the cavities of the housing member and an aperture for venting the reflector unit cavities to the exterior of the housing member.

Abstract: A photoflash unit comprising a plurality of 2n flashlamps attached to a printed circuit board and disposed in a linear array with the longitudinal axes of respective lamps aligned in parallel. The circuit board has a substantially rectangular portion with n spaced apart extensions projecting vertically from a longer side thereof, the extensions being located behind alternate lamps of the linear array. Each extension contains portions of circuit patterns bridged by a mass of switch material to provide a solid state radiation switch on each extension and adjacent to a respective lamp for receiving radiant energy emitted by that lamp. The unit further includes a plurality of reflector cavities within each of which a respective one of the flashlamps is nested. Each reflector cavity includes a recessed rear wall section for accommodating a circuit board extension, such that each of the extensions are disposed between a respective lamp envelope and the recessed rear wall of the associated reflector.

Abstract: A multilamp photoflash unit has a housing formed to provide a multiplicity of cavities, each having a reflective surface and formed to receive a flashlamp. Each of the cavities has a reflective surface width opening to flashlamp diameter ratio of less than about 1.2, and the cavity configuration includes a planar rear wall section and a pair of bi-planar sidewall sections.

Abstract: A photoflash unit comprising a plurality of 2n flashlamps attached to a printed circuit board and disposed in a linear array with the longitudinal axes of respective lamps aligned in parallel. Circuit patterns on the circuit board include a plurality of n selective terminal means, each associated with a respective pair of the lamps and connected to one lead-in wire of each of the lamps of the associated pair, and a common terminal associated with all of the 2n lamps but directly connected to the other lead-in wire of one lamp of each pair. The circuit board has a substantially rectangular portion with n spaced apart extensions projecting vertically from a longer side thereof, the extensions being located behind alternate lamps of the linear array.

Abstract: Venting apertures for multi-lamp photoflash units having a plurality of spaced flashlamp receiving cavities are provided intermediate the cavities whereby no direct path for fragments from a flashlamp within a cavity to the exterior of the unit is provided. In another aspect, a reflector unit having venting apertures aligned with the venting apertures of the above-described photoflash unit is enclosed with the photoflash unit with no direct path for projectiles from the photoflash lamp to the exterior of the photoflash unit.

Abstract: A photoflash unit having a plurality of flashlamps mounted on a printed circuit board containing circuitry for sequentially igniting the flashlamps in response to successive firing pulses applied thereto. The circuitry includes a plurality of solid-state switches capable of being activated by radiant energy generated during flashing of lamps located adjacent to respective switches. Initially, each of the switches has a resistance sufficiently high to provide an open circuit to the applied firing pulses, and after being activated by radiation, the switch undergoes chemical conversion to a conductive state over a finite time interval. The switches are prepared from compositions comprising admixtures of silver carbonate and/or silver oxide, silver-coated glass beads and a binder; the admixtures may also include electrically non-conductive particulate solids, such as titanium dioxide, and/or silver-coated metal beads.

Abstract: A multiple photoflash unit of the planar array type having a composite circuit board and electric shield member to which a plurality of flash lamps are electrically connected for sequential flashing with reduced possibility of accidental flashing due to electrostatic voltage charges. In a preferred embodiment the associated members are sandwiched between front and back housing covers in a manner permitting the flash lamps to generate a mechanical spring action for additional physical support in the assembly.

Abstract: A light source unit for an endoscope is provided with a number of flash tubes which are caused in turn to emit a light. On an optical path passing through a light-incident surface of a light guide of the endoscope there are arranged, in corresponding relationship to the flash tubes, a number of plane reflecting mirrors which reflect the lights from the flash tubes toward the light-incident surface of the light guide, respectively. The reflecting mirrors are each movable, for example, by a rotary solenoid. This solenoid operates at the time when the light emission from one of the flash tubes is completed. Thus, the solenoid, for the purpose of giving the optical path for a succeeding one of the flash tube, removes from that optical path the reflecting mirror corresponding to said one of the flash discharge tubes.