DK179913B1 - An artificial light source - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a light source for a shooting table setup for recording a picture, wherein the light source comprises a stationary entity and a dynamic entity, the dynamic entity comprises a non-horizontal part having an array of diodes; a horizontal part having an array of diodes or a combination of a non-horizontal part having an array of diodes and a horizontal part having an array of diodes.

Description

AN ARTIFICIAL LIGHT SOURCE

Technical field of the invention

The present invention relates to the development of an artificial light for photography. In particular, the present invention relates to an automated apparatus for recording a photograph using a shooting table setup with a dynamic artificial light source.

Background of the invention

Still life photography of specific products has a long history and is increasingly influencing the industry and is increasingly influencing the marketing of a product. Hence, the photographer is facing increasing demands in the presentation of a product and at the same time the increasing competition on the market has pushed the prices into a fall.

Commercial product photography traditionally involves a subject, i.e. the commercial product, and a shooting table setup. The shooting table setup traditionally comprises a background, a table top and a light source. In commercially available shooting table setups, the background is usually constructed by plastic plates bent around and fixated to a frame or a stand comprising both background and table-top. Often a shooting table setup is constructed manually, by hanging paper or fabric, most often called a background or fabric which is placed behind or around the commercial product on a frame or a stand. Then the background and the commercial product is subjected to light using lamps that may emit flash light or a continuous light and the pictures/photographs are recorded using a camera. The lamps providing the light is traditionally placed on top of a stand and facing the commercial product. Traditionally, the lamps and additional light modifying tools are manually moved around in order to provide the right or best light for the particular photo shoot.

Another commercial product photography method involves a product photography tent where the product is placed inside the product photography tent. One side of the tent has an opening allowing recording a picture of the commercial product. The background, e.g. in form of a paper or a canvas of the product photography tent, is usually white and made of a material capable of transmitting light provided from the lamps, which are manually placed and manually replaced inside or outside of the tent. A product photography tent is most often used for photographing products with high gloss surfaces as it leaves a relatively monotonous mirroring in the product.

Thus, not only the extensive time consumption used for setting up the light position, light angles, light intensity; light colors, applying light modifying tools etc., the picture recorded by these prior art processes also involves a following refinement of the recorded picture that is time consuming and cost consuming. For example, the recorded pictures may involve a continuing manually change of the light setting in order to provide the desired output and the desired recorded pictures. Furthermore, the recorded picture/pictures are refined, e.g. using Photoshop or similar programs, to separate the commercial product for the background and merging the product with a new background which is a timeconsuming process and requires extensive technical skills. Furthermore, reflections in the recorded pictures often need to be removed or modified in order not to have silhouettes or clear visual indication of cameras, lamps etc. from the setup.

US 4 383 287 A discloses a lighting system pertaining to a method and apparatus for illuminating a subject to be photographed wherein the subject is illuminated in such a manner that a uniform highlight is produced upon reflective surface, substantially uniform illumination of the subject is achieved at front and lateral areas, and the background may be modified to lower the background contrast, and if desired, the background may be removed completely. A light source of elongated configuration produces a uniform light source of a vertical dimension greater than the vertical dimension of the subject being photographed. The light source is translated across the subject matter at a predetermined uniform rate while the camera aperture is open while photographing the front and lateral portions of the subject illuminated by the light source. The passing of the light source behind the subject lowers the contrast of the existing background, and such contrast may be sufficient to remove the background completely, if desired. Apparatus for supporting and translating the light source may include a permanent mounting wherein the light source revolves in a circle, or the light source may be mounted upon a portable platform driven by a constant speed motor for producing a uniform displacement of the light source. The purpose of the disclosed system is to provide a uniform light source, preferably from a single light source, the system is not able to provide a dynamic light source.

Hence, commercial product photography involves a lot of expensive manually labor, excessive time consumption, difficulties in providing the correct settings of the photographic setup; the impossible demand of repeating or reproducing previous settings for recording a picture; and significant refinement of the recorded pictures.

Thus, an improved device for recording pictures and improved method for recording pictures would be advantageous, and in particular a more efficient, faster; labor reducing, cost effective, easy to handle, reliable and/or repeatable device for recording a picture and a method wherein the need for refinement of the recorded picture is limited or avoided, would be advantageous.

Summary of the invention

Thus, an object of the present invention relates to an improved device for recording pictures and an improved method for recording pictures.

In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a new device and a new method that solves the above-mentioned problems with the prior art with efficiency, speed; labor requirement, cost, difficulties in providing the correct settings, and/or difficulties in repeating previous settings and/or extensive requirements for picture refinement.

Thus, one aspect of the invention relates to a light source for a shooting table setup for recording a picture of an object, which light source comprises a stationary entity and a dynamic entity, where the dynamic entity is configured to continuously change position by rotation around the object while a picture is recorded; and the dynamic entity comprises a non-horizontal part which is vertically extending and having an array of diodes or the dynamic entity is a combination of a non-horizontal part which is vertically extending and having an array of diodes and a horizontal part having an array of diodes, characterized in that the dynamic entity is also changing position by horizontal displacement..

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a shooting table setup for recording a picture of an object, the shooting table setup comprises a stand; and a light source according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the shooting table setup comprises a stand or a frame and the frame is surrounding the light source.

Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for automatically providing a picture of an object in an artistic setup, the method comprising the steps of:

(i) providing a shooting table setup according to the second aspect of the present invention;

(ii) providing the object in the artistic setup;

(iii) optionally, providing one or more background;

(iv) providing at least one camera for taking the picture, preferably two cameras; and (v) programming a computer with a route of direction for exposing the object, providing the picture of the object.

Still another aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a light source according to the present invention, or a shooting table setup according to the present invention, for providing a photograph or an animation.

In an even further embodiment of the present invention relates to the use of a light source according to the present invention, or a shooting table setup according to the present invention, for providing a 3D picture.

Brief description of the figures

Figure 1 shows a shooting table setup (2) for recording a picture according to the present invention comprising a frame (20) surrounding a light source (2). The light source (2) comprise a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), where the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture.

Figure 2 shows a light source (2) according to the present invention comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), and wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and different designs of the non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture.

Figure 3 shows a light source (2) according to the present invention. The light source (2) comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), and wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. During use the light source (2) according to the present invention the dynamic entity (4) provides a light from the horizontal part (6) downwards (vertically projected light) towards the object (27) to be recorded. The light source (2) is during use moving position by rotating clockwise around the object (27) to be recorded. Additionally, while moving clockwise around the object (27), the light source (2) may also be moving position by horizontal displacement going closer and closer towards the object (27) to be recorded or going further and further away from the object (27) to be recorded.

Figure 4 shows a light source (2) according to the present invention. The light source (2) comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), and wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. During use the dynamic entity (4) provides a light from the non-horizontal part (5) (horizontally projected light) towards the object (27) to be recorded. The light source (2) is during use moving position by rotating clockwise around the object (27) to be recorded. Additionally, while moving clockwise around the object (27) the light source (2) may also be moving position by horizontal displacement and going closer and closer towards the object (27) to be recorded or going further and further away from the object (27) to be recorded.

Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the present invention wherein the light source (2) according to the present invention, comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a non-horizontal part (5), being substantially vertical placed, and a horizontal part (6). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. The figures 5a, 5b and 5c illustrate a horizontal view (5al, 5bl and 5cl) of the light source (2) and a vertical downward view (5a2, 5b2 and 5c2) of the light source (2). Figure 5 illustrate that the light source (2) may be adjusted in the horizontal direction and during use the light source (2) is moving position by rotating around a first point (9) providing the best or the desired light to the object (27) recorded.

Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the present invention wherein the light source (2) according to the present invention, comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) being substantially vertical placed. The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. The light source (2) may be dynamically adjusted in the horizontal direction whereby both a rotating movement around a first point (9) and a horizontal movement may be performed when recording the picture.

The present invention will now be described in more detail in the following.

Detailed description of the invention

The industry of commercial product photography has been growing over the last couple of centuries and since the launch of the digital camera the requirement from the clients have been more and more demanding. I order to meet these demands or some of these demands different kind of equipment's like light sources and shooting table setup have been provided, however, the equipment available still involves a lot of expensive manually labor, excessive time consumption, difficulties in providing the correct settings of the photographic setup; difficult in repeating reproducing previous settings for recording a picture; and a need for significant refinement of the recorded pictures. However, the inventor of the present invention surprisingly found a light source, a shooting table setup and a method meeting at least some of these disadvantages.

Hence, an aspect of the present invention relates to a light source for a shooting table setup for recording a picture, wherein the light source comprises a stationary entity and a dynamic entity, the dynamic entity comprises a non-horizontal part having an array of diodes; a horizontal part having an array of diodes or a combination of a non-horizontal part having an array of diodes and a horizontal part having an array of diodes.

The picture to be recorded may preferably be obtained from an object. Preferably, the object is a product, even more preferably the product is a non-moving product.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the dynamic entity comprises, in addition to a non-horizontal part, a horizontal part, wherein the horizontal part may be connected to the stationary entity at a first point and connected to the non-horizontal part at a second point.

In order to provide high quality and realistic pictures of an object the light and the light projections are important. Traditionally, stationary light sources are used which are manually placed and manually replaced and adjusted to find the best spot for providing light during the recording of the picture. The present invention provides a moving light during the recording of the picture and/or the background of the recoding. Hence, the dynamic entity comprises a non-horizontal part having an array of diodes; a horizontal part having an array of diodes or a combination of a non-horizontal part having an array of diodes and a horizontal part having an array of diodes. Preferably, the horizontal part of the dynamic entity may be in rotating contact with the stationary entity.

In an embodiment of the present invention the horizontal part of the dynamic entity may be horizontally displaceable in contact with the stationary entity.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the non-horizontal part may be fixed to the end of the horizontal part, at the second point.

In another embodiment of the present invention the non-horizontal part may be horizontally displaceable in contact with the horizontal part, at the second point.

In the present context, the term light source relates to a device capable of providing an artificial light in respect of recording a picture of an object. The light source may provide the artificial light in a purpose specific and direct manner relative to the object and the picture to be recorded.

In an embodiment of the present invention the non-horizontal part comprises a first array of diodes, preferably the first array of diodes is directed towards the centre of the dynamic entity.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the non-horizontal part comprises a third array of diodes, preferably the third array of diodes are directed away from the centre of the dynamic entity. Use of the third array of diodes directed away from the centre of the dynamic entity may be particular useful when it is desirable to provide an indirect light of the object to be recorded.

Both the first array of diodes and the third array of diodes may be used simultaneously depending on the setting of the artistic setup. The artistic setup includes the object, preferably the commercial product, to be recorded and involves the object; one or more backgrounds, and other elements added to the artistic setup to promote the visual effect of the product.

The light projected from the first array of diodes and/or the third array of diodes or part of the first array of diodes and/or part of the third array of diodes may be in a horizontal, or substantial horizontal, direction. In the present context, the term light projected relates to the direction of the centre of the beam of the light.

In an embodiment of the present invention the horizontal part comprises a second array of diodes, preferably the second array of diodes are directed towards the centre of the dynamic entity.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the horizontal part comprises a fourth array of diodes, preferably the fourth array of diodes are directed away from the centre of the dynamic entity.

Use of the fourth array of diodes directed away from the centre of the dynamic entity may be particular useful when it is desirable to provide an indirect light of the object to be recorded.

Both the second array of diodes and the fourth array of diodes may be used simultaneously depending on the setting of the artistic setup. The artistic setup includes the object, preferably the commercial product, to be recorded and involves the object; one or more backgrounds, and other elements added to the artistic setup to promote the visual effect of the product.

The light projected from the second array of diodes and/or the fourth array of diodes or part of the second array of diodes and/or part of the third array of diodes may be in a vertical, or substantial vertical, direction.

In an embodiment of the present invention the first array of diodes may be selected independently from the second array of diodes which is selected independently from the third array of diodes, and which is selected independently from the fourth array of diodes.

In a further embodiment of the present invention each of the diodes of the first array of diodes is controlled individually, each of the diodes of the second array of diodes is controlled individually, each of the diodes of the third array of diodes is controlled individually and/or each of the diodes of the forth array of diodes is controlled individually.

In the context of the present invention the term array of diodes relates to all the diodes located on the same side of the horizontal part or all the diodes located on the same side of the non-horizontal part.

In an embodiment of the present invention the array of diodes may comprise a selected area of diodes. Furthermore, a selected area of the first array, and/or a selected area of the second array, and/or a selected area of the third array, and/or a selected area of the fourth array, is changing light intensity in combination depending on the position of the dynamic entity.

In the present context, the term selected area relates to one or more diodes of an array of diodes (e.g. first array, second array, third array or fourth array), preferably a group of diodes, which are controlled in combination.

In an embodiment of the present invention the selected area of the first array comprises from 1 diode to all the diodes of the of the first array of diodes, such as from 1% to 95% of the first array of diodes, e.g. from 5% to 75% of the first array of diodes, such as from 10% to 60% of the first array of diodes, e.g. from 25% to 40% of the first array of diodes.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the selected area of the second array comprises from 1 diode to all the diodes of the of the second array of diodes, such as from 1% to 95% of the second array of diodes, e.g. from 5% to 75% of the second array of diodes, such as from 10% to 60% of the second array of diodes, e.g. from 25% to 40% of the second array of diodes.

In an embodiment of the present invention the selected area of the third array comprises from 1 diode to all the diodes of the of the third array of diodes, such as from 1% to 95% of the third array of diodes, e.g. from 5% to 75% of the third array of diodes, such as from 10% to 60% of the third array of diodes, e.g. from 25% to 40% of the third array of diodes.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the selected area of the fourth array comprises from 1 diode to all the diodes of the of the fourth array of diodes, such as from 1% to 95% of the fourth array of diodes, e.g. from 5% to 75% of the fourth array of diodes, such as from 10% to 60% of the fourth array of diodes, e.g. from 25% to 40% of the fourth array of diodes.

Preferably the selected area as described involves adjacent diodes, preferably, adjacent and contacting diodes. In the present context, the term contacting relates to the contact of at least two diodes.

In an embodiment of the present invention the first array of diodes; the second array of diodes; the third array of diodes; and/or the fourth array of diodes, may be selected from LED diodes (Light Emitting Diode); OLED diodes (Organic Light Emitting Diode); IRdiodes (infrared diode); UV-diodes (ultraviolet diode); or a combination hereof.

Preferably, the non-horizontal part; or the first array of diodes; or the third array of diodes may comprise an array of LED diodes (Light Emitting Diode); OLED diodes (Organic Light Emitting Diode); or a combination hereof. Even more preferably, the non-horizontal part; or the first array of diodes; or the third array of diodes may comprise an array of LED diodes (Light Emitting Diode).

Preferably, the horizontal part; or the second array of diodes; or the fourth array of diodes may comprise an array of LED diodes (Light Emitting Diode); OLED diodes (Organic Light Emitting Diode); or a combination hereof. Even more preferably, the horizontal part; or the second array of diodes; or the fourth array of diodes may comprise an array of LED diodes (Light Emitting Diode).

In order to increase the effect of the arrays of diodes on the non-horizontal part or on the horizontal part the distance between the diodes of the first array of diodes (7), and/or the distance between the diodes of the second array of diodes (11), and/or the distance between the diodes of the third array of diodes (8), and/or the distance between the diodes of the fourth array of diodes (12), may be less than 10 mm, such as less than 5 mm, e.g. less than 3 mm, such as less than 1 mm, e.g. less than 0.75 mm, such as less than 0.5 mm, e.g. less than 0.25 mm, such as less than 0.1 mm, e.g. less than 0.05 mm, such as less than 0.01 mm.

To include as many diodes as possible in an array of diodes, the diodes of the individual arrays may be placed in contact with one another. Thus, preferably one diode of the first array of diodes, one diode of the second array of diodes, one diode of the third array of diodes, and/or one diode of the fourth array of diodes may be placed in contact with at least one other diode of the same array of diodes, such as at least 2 other diodes, e.g. 3 other diodes, such as 4 other diodes.

The light to be used in the present invention may preferably be a programmable diode. Preferably, the diodes according to the present invention are individual programmable and may be provided with individual instructions, such as light intensity or light color, specific for that specific diode.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the dynamic entity; the position of the dynamic entity; each diode; the array of diodes and/or each selected area may be automatically controlled. Hence, an automated or semi-automated process may be provided.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention the dynamic entity; the position of the dynamic entity; each diode; the array of diodes and/or each selected area may be controlled by a programmed computer.

In another embodiment of the present invention the dynamic entity may be moved in the circular direction (rotating direction) and/or in the horizontal direction by a motor, preferably an electromotor.

Standard computer programs for controlling the dynamic entity; the position of the dynamic entity; each diode; the array of diodes and/or each selected area are, optionally with few adaptations, available to the skilled person.

The light projected from the array of diodes, or the individual diodes may preferably, be adjustable over at large range of light intensities and/or over a large range of light colors in order to provide the right or desired light for recording the picture.

As the light projected may be different at one angle of the object to be recorded to another angle of the object, a selected area of the first array and/or, a selected area of the second array and/or a selected area of the third array, and/or a selected area of the fourth array may be changing light intensity in combination depending on the position of the dynamic entity.

In an embodiment of the present invention the diodes include a red light; a green light; a blue light; a white light or combination hereof.

The projection of light color may be important to obtain the desired recording. In an embodiment of the present invention the first array; the selected area of the first array; the second array; the selected area of the second array; the third array; the selected area of the third array; the fourth array; and/or the selected area of the fourth array may be changing light colour depending on the position of the dynamic entity.

In an embodiment of the present invention an individual diode according to the present invention may comprise a red light, a green light or a blue light. Preferably, the individual diode used in an embodiment of the present invention may comprise the combination of a red light, a green light and a blue light.

In a further embodiment of the present invention an individual diode may comprise a white light.

The array of diodes according to the present invention and/or the selected areas of diodes of the present invention may comprise diodes having a red light; a green light; a blue light; and optionally a white light.

In the present context, the term position of the dynamic entity” relates to the continuous movement of the dynamic entity when the picture is being recorded. The specific movement, speed of the movement, direction of the movement (rotation and/or horizontal) may be automated and preferably controlled by a computer. The horizontal part and/or the non-horizontal part is movable in horizontal direction from the first point of connection with the stationary entity.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the horizontal movement and/or moving in horizontal direction may be done by displacement of the dynamic entity resulting in a difference in the radius of the dynamic entity relative to a rotation axis of the dynamic entity.

Preferably, each diode or each selected area of diodes may be controlled individually in changing light intensity; and/or light colour depending on the position of the dynamic entity.

Furthermore, the first array; the second array; the third array; and/or the fourth array, may preferably be changing light intensity and/or light color depending on the position of the dynamic entity.

In an embodiment according to the present invention the specific movement, speed of the movement, direction of the movement either by rotation and/or by horizontal movement

The dynamic movement of the dynamic entity may be important to reach the desired position of the dynamic entity, and hence, the desired light projection of the object to be recorded. Hence in an embodiment of the present invention the dynamic entity (4) may be changing position, preferably by rotation and/or by displacement.

Rotation of the dynamic entity may be a circular movement of the dynamic entity (and the non-horizontal part and/or the horizontal part) around a center of rotation. In an embodiment of the present invention, the center of rotation, the rotation axis goes through the center of the connection between the dynamic entity and the stationary entity. Preferably the object to be recorded may be placed along the rotation axis and below the first point.

In an embodiment of the present invention the non-horizontal part may be movable in circular motion around a first point of connection between the dynamic entity and the stationary entity.

In a further embodiment of the present invention the horizontal part may be movable in circular motion around the first point of connection with the stationary entity.

In another embodiment of the present invention the horizontal part and/or the nonhorizontal part may be moving in circular motion with a speed in the range of 0.1-500 rpm (rpm: rounds per minutes); such as in the range of 0.2-250 rpm; e.g. in the range of 0.5100 rpm; such as in the range of 1-90 rpm; e.g. in the range of 2-80 rpm; such as in the range of 3-70 rpm; e.g. in the range of 5-60 rpm; such as in the range of 10-50 rpm; e.g. in the range of 12-40 rpm; such as in the range of 15-30 rpm; e.g. in the range of 20-25 rpm.

The non-horizontal part may take different forms or shapes in order to provide the desired light projection. Preferably, the non-horizontal part may be substantially vertically extending. Relevant forms or shapes the non-horizontal part may have can be wherein the non-horizontal part may be arc shaped; convex shaped; concave shaped; or formed with at least one straight part and at least one half-circle part. Preferably, the at least one straight part and at least one half-circle part shaped non-horizontal part has a first straight part followed by a half-circle and ending with a second straight part.

The light source according to the present invention may preferably be used in a shooting table setup for recording an object.

Hence, a preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a shooting table setup for recording a picture, the shooting table setup comprises a frame; and a light source according to the present invention.

In the present context, the term shooting table setup relates to a setup for recording a picture. The shooting table often comprises a frame or a stand, light source, such as the one according to the present invention and at least one camera support for holding a camera.

In an embodiment of the present invention the camera support may be a tripod, a stand, mounts or similar.

The frame may be defined by comprising a top side; a left side; a right side; a bottom side; a back side and a front side. Preferably, the top side; the left side; the right side; the bottom side; the back side and the front side represents the outer edge of a box with open sides. The box may comprise an open cavity holding the light source.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the frame and/or the stand may be surrounding the light source.

In order to create particular surroundings for the object to be recorded, different backgrounds may be used. These backgrounds may be an acrylic-glass plate; paper in different colors; a fabric; or a canvas. In an embodiment of the present invention the shooting table setup comprises at least one background placed in one or more of the open sides. In particular, the at least one background may be placed in the top side; the left side; the right side; the bottom side; and/or the back side of the frame.

When recording the picture of the object it is preferred that the camera is kept steady. Hence in order to avoid movement of the camera during recording of the picture the shooting table setup may comprise at least one camera support, such as at least 2 camera supports, e.g. at least 3 camera supports. These camera supports are used to hold and fixate the camera during recording.

In an embodiment of the present invention the shooting table setup comprises at least one camera, such as at least two cameras, e.g. at least 3 cameras, such as at least 4 cameras, preferably the shooting table setup comprises at least 2 cameras. Preferably the number of camera-supports on the shooting table setup match the number of cameras or an excess of camera supports relative to the number of cameras may preferably be provided.

Preferably, the at least one camera is a digital camera.

In order to reduce, avoid or limit the amount of refinement of the recorded pictures, the two cameras, e.g. the at least 3 cameras, such as the at least 4 cameras may in an embodiment according to the present invention be identical cameras. Preferably, the identical cameras relate to identical cameras, identical lenses, identical programming; hence, total identical cameras.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the dynamic entity; the position of the dynamic entity; each diode (or each selected area) and the at least one camera may be automatically controlled.

Preferably, the dynamic entity; the position of the dynamic entity; each diode (or each selected area) and the at least one camera may be controlled by a programmed computer.

In an embodiment of the present invention the at least one camera is configured to have long exposure, preferably, the long exposure is in the range of 60 seconds to 1/125 second, such as in the range of 50 seconds to 1/60 second, e.g. in the range of 40 seconds to 1/40 second, such as in the range of 30 seconds to 1/25 second, e.g. in the range of 20 seconds to 1/10 second, such as in the range of 10 seconds to 1 second, e.g. in the range of 9 seconds to 2 seconds, such as in the range of 8 seconds to 3 seconds, e.g. in the range of 7 seconds to 4 seconds, such as in the range of 6 seconds to 5 seconds.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for automatically recording a picture of an object in an artistic setup, the method comprising the steps of:

(I) providing a shooting table setup according to the present invention;

(ii) providing the object in the artistic setup;

(ill) optionally, providing one or more background;

(iv) providing at least one camera for taking the picture, preferably two cameras; and (v) programming a computer with a route of direction for exposing the object, providing the recorded picture of the object.

In an embodiment of the present invention the route of direction for exposing the object to be recorded include details on rotation (RPM); displacement of the dynamic entity; the light intensity of the diodes; which diodes or which sections of diodes to be activated and when; and/or the light colour.

In an embodiment of the present invention wherein the recorded picture comprises a collection of two or more pictures of the object. Preferably, the computer is configured to collect the pictures of the object to provide a final picture.

In an embodiment of the present invention a refinement of the recorded picture is unnecessary and/or avoided. Furthermore, the method according to the present invention may automatically merge the object to be recorded with any background, without the need to use Photoshop or similar programs to provide the recorded picture. In a further embodiment of the present invention the background is created by the light source which is projected directly into the one or more camera.

The picture according to the present invention may be a photograph, in particular a still life photograph, an animation or a 3D picture. Preferably the 3D picture may subsequently be used for 3D printing of identical objects or modified objects if the recorded 3D picture is modified.

It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present invention also apply to the other aspects of the invention.

The invention will now be described in further details in the following detailed description of the non-limiting figures.

Detailed description of the Figures

Figure 1 shows a shooting table setup (1) for recording a picture according to the present invention comprising a frame (20) having a top side (21); a left side (22); a right side (23); a bottom side (24); a back side (25) and a front side (26) representing the outer edge of a box with open sides. One or more of the sides provided by the frame (20) may comprise a background. The background may be provided to affect the light projected or be part of the recorded picture. The frame (20) may be surrounding a light source (2). The light source (2) comprise a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a non-horizontal part (5), being substantially vertical placed, and a horizontal part (6). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. The non-horizontal part (5) may be substantially vertically extending or the non-horizontal part (5) may be arc shaped; convex shaped; concave shaped; or formed with at least one straight part and at least one half-circle part, preferably, a first straight part followed by a half-circle and ending with a second straight part. During operation, the stationary entity (3) of the light source (2) may be fixed in the top side (21) of the frame (20) while the dynamic entity (4) may changing position, preferably by rotation and/or by displacement. The dynamic entity (4); the position of the dynamic entity (4); each diode (or each selected area) and the at least one camera (not shown), preferably a digital camera, may be automatically controlled. Preferably, the dynamic entity (4); the position of the dynamic entity (4); each diode (or each selected area) and the at least one camera (not shown) are controlled by a programmed computer.

Figure 2 shows a light source (2) according to the present invention comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), and wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and different designs of the non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. The different designs of the nonhorizontal part, illustrates a substantial vertical shape (see figure 2a); a shape of the dynamic entity (5), where the non-horizontal part (5) may be formed with at least one straight part and at least one half-circle part, illustrated by a first straight part (19a) followed by a half-circle (19b) and ending with a second straight part (19c); a convex shaped form (figure 2c); or concave shaped form (figure 2d).

Figure 3 shows a light source (2) according to the present invention. The light source (2) comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), and wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. During operation, the dynamic entity (4) according to the present invention provides a light from the horizontal part (6) downwards (vertically projected light) towards the object (27) to be recorded. The light source (2) is during operation moving position by rotating of the dynamic entity by a circular movement of the dynamic entity (and the non-horizontal part and/or the horizontal part) around a center of rotation and the rotation axis goes through the center of the connection between the dynamic entity and the stationary entity, e.g. the first point (9). Preferably the object (27) to be recorded may be placed along the rotation axis and below the first point. The rotation of the dynamic entity (4) may be clockwise around a rotation axis/first point (9) connecting the horizontal part (6) to the stationary entity (3). A second array of diodes provides the light where light intensity and/or light color may be controlled by a programmed computer and may be dynamically adjusted depending on the picture to be recorded and the position of the light source (2). In figure 3, the different hatchings may illustrate different light colors (e.g. green, red and blue) and/or light intensities projected by the horizontal part (6) downwards towards the object (27) to be recorded.

Figure 4 shows a light source (2) according to the present invention. The light source (2) comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), and wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. During operation, the dynamic entity (4) according to the present invention provides a light from the non-horizontal part (5) horizontally projected, towards the object (27) to be recorded. The light source (2) is during operation moving position by rotating of the dynamic entity (4) by a circular movement of the dynamic entity (4) (and the non-horizontal part (5) and/or the horizontal part (6)) around a center of rotation and the rotation axis goes through the center of the connection between the dynamic entity (4) and the stationary entity (3), e.g. the first point (9). Preferably the object (27) to be recorded may be placed along the rotation axis and below the first point. The rotation of the dynamic entity (4) may be clockwise around a rotation axis/first point (9) connecting the horizontal part (6) to the stationary entity (3). A first array of diodes provides the light where light intensity and/or light color may be controlled by a programmed computer and may be dynamically adjusted depending on the picture to be recorded and the position of the light source (2). In figure 4, the different hatchings may illustrate different light colors (e.g. green, red and blue) and/or light intensities projected by the non-horizontal part (5) horizontally towards the object (27) to be recorded.

Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the present invention wherein the light source (2) according to the present invention, comprises a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a non-horizontal part (5), being substantially vertical placed, and a horizontal part (6). The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. The figures 5a, 5b and 5c illustrate a horizontal view (5al, 5bl and 5cl) of the light source (2) and a vertical downward view (5a2, 5b2 and 5c2) of the light source (2). Figure 5 illustrate that the light source (2) may be adjusted in the horizontal direction and the horizontal movement illustrated in figures 5a, 5b and 5c may be done by displacement of the dynamic entity resulting in a difference in the radius (30) of the dynamic entity relative to a rotation axis (28) of the dynamic entity. The light source (2) may during operation be moving position by rotating the dynamic entity (4) by a circular movement of the dynamic entity (4) (and the non-horizontal part (5) and/or the horizontal part (6)) around a center of rotation and the rotation axis (28) goes through the center of the connection between the dynamic entity (4) and the stationary entity (3), e.g. the first point, providing the best or the desired light to the object recorded, at the radius (30) indicated by the figures 5a, 5b or 5c.

Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the present invention wherein the light source (2) according to the present invention, comprising a stationary entity (3) and a dynamic entity (4), wherein the dynamic entity (4) comprises a horizontal part (6) and a non-horizontal part (5). The non-horizontal part (5) being substantially vertical placed. The non-horizontal part (5) and and/or the horizontal part (6) comprises the diodes providing the necessary light for recording the desired picture. The light source (2) may be dynamically adjusted in the horizontal direction whereby both a rotating movement around a first point (9) and a horizontal movement may be performed when recording the picture. During use, the route of direction (29) for exposing the object (27), to the desired light is provided by a computer and providing the recorded picture of the object (27). The route of direction involves in addition to controlling of light intensity and light color, the movement of the light source (2), which is moving position based on instructions from the programmed computer, by rotating around a first point (9) and simultaneously moving in horizontal direction by horizontal displacement resulting in the best or the desired light provided, and preferably from any angle, of the object (9) to be recorded.

Claims (9)

Patent claims Light source for a photo table arrangement for capturing an image of an object, said light source comprising a stationary unit (3) and a dynamic unit (4), the dynamic unit (4) being adapted to continuously change position by rotating about the object while a photo is being taken; and the dynamic unit comprises a non-horizontal part (5) which extends vertically and has a series of diodes or the dynamic unit is a combination of a non-horizontal part (5) which extends vertically and has a series of diodes and a horizontal part (6) having a series of diodes, characterized in that the dynamic unit (4) can also change position by horizontal displacement, where horizontal displacement means that the unit moves closer to or further away from the object to be recorded. The light source according to claim 1, wherein the row of diodes or the individual diodes is adapted to project a light which is adjustable over a range of light intensities and / or over a range of light colors to thereby provide a desired light at each of the dynamic unit positions while shooting an image. The light source according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the non-horizontal part is arcuate; convex; concave; or formed with at least one equal part and at least one semicircular part, preferably a first equal part followed by a semicircle and finally a second equal part. A photo table arrangement for capturing an image of an object, the photo table arrangement comprising a light source according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the photo table arrangement comprises a stand or a frame and the frame surrounds the light source. The photo table arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the photo table arrangement comprises at least one camera; such as at least two cameras; for example. at least 3 cameras, such as at least 4 cameras, preferably the photo table setup comprises at least 2 cameras. The photo table arrangement according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the dynamic unit; the position of the dynamic unit; each diode (or each selected range) and the at least two cameras are controlled automatically. The photo table arrangement according to any one of claims 4, 5 or 6, wherein the dynamic unit; the position of the dynamic unit; each diode (or each selected area) and the at least one camera are controlled by a programmed computer. A method of automatically capturing an image of an object in an artistic setup, the method comprising the steps of: (i) providing a photo table arrangement according to any one of claims 4-7; (ii) providing the object in the artistic set-up; (Iii) optionally providing one or more backgrounds; (iv) providing at least one camera to record the image, preferably two cameras; and (v) programming a computer with a directional route for exposing the object which provides the captured image of the object. The method of claim 8, wherein the diodes are each programmable and can be provided with an individual instruction, such as light intensity or light color, that is specific to the specific diode. Use of a light source according to any one of claims 1-3, or a photo table arrangement according to any one of claims 4-7, for providing a photo, an animation or a 3D image.