Concept
As a frequent traveler and video content creator, I require a compact and efficient kit. The flexibility of my equipment is crucial, which why I chose to purchase a set of eight Kelvin Play light panels—they're color accurate, adjustable, and have a long battery life. However there were times I needed a larger light source, and finding a small, color-accurate alternative proved challenging. In those moments, I had to make do with a few Play lights on stands, which resulted in a setup I found embarrassing for high-profile clients. Upon returning home, I made a lightweight frame that was easy to assemble, allowing me to use my lights as a single source. My clients appreciated my quick adaptability, and the setup appeared professional and sturdy. Over several months, I made enhancements, including adding a simple power pack for lightweight V-Mount batteries, extending the lights' on-set life, and providing a single source of AC power. I made a few units for some associates and their lights and I decided that I would design a more commercial version. If I never sold any I figured at least I would have a better frame.
Design
Our design concept focuses on creating a sturdy, convenient, and safe product that stands the test of time. We prioritize durability and functionality, ensuring that our customers receive a long-lasting solution tailored to their needs.
Modularity: The frame features a modular design, enabling us to produce specific components for lights from various manufacturers. This design also permits us to provide the battery and charging unit as an optional feature.​​​
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Lightweight: During the design process, we aimed create a frame that is both robust for safety and as lightweight as possible. Each component is evaluated based on these two key criteria. To reach that goal we use lightweight co-polymer plastics throughout the design. Each component is evaluated based on these two key criteria. We also implemented several design modifications over several generations to eliminate unnecessary parts, reducing both weight and cost.
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Secure and Solid: We designed the frame for user-friendliness and security. The Bracing Plate features cushioned supports that gently press the lamps into their frame without causing any scratches or damage to the finish. Similarly, the diffusion and grids are equipped with guides to facilitate easy and precise placement. These components remain securely in position, no matter the angle.
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Convienience: The yoke can be broken down in three small sections and the Battery Pack is detachable for convenient travel. Moreover, the entire frame can be effortlessly disassembled for compact storage when needed. All required tools are included in the standard frame package.
The Battery Pack option also allows you to charge the Lamp batteries either from battery or common AC chargers.
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Materials
When choosing materials we had to find the most durable and lightweight materials we could find. In fact
the only metal parts you will find are electrical wires, screws and screw inserts and threaded seats for the yoke clamps.
3D Print Filaments
We tested many different types of 3D print filaments trying to find the a material that was suitable for the quality we are trying to achieve. Carbon fibre enhanced Pet-G and Polycarbonate were the obvious choices for toughness, resistance to moisture absorption, dimensional stability and durability. It's important to note that not all carbon fiber filaments are created equal; many budget options utilize inferior milled or low-modulus carbon fiber, compromising on performance. That's why we opted for a premium quality, US-manufactured filament featuring high-modulus carbon fiber, ensuring both high tensile strength and superior stiffness, alongside PAG GF (glass fiber) filament for enhanced stiffness and dimensional accuracy.
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3D Print Resins
We utilize the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) technology to create high-resolution parts that closely injection-molded components. This innovative method involves fusing polymer liquid layer by layer, resulting in solid structures with impressive detail. After extensive testing of various polymers, we have determined that the Elegoo ABS-Like Resin 3. Pro is the ideal choice for our needs, to its exceptional performance and versatility.
ABS Panels
Our frames are crafted using premium quality ABS plastic sheets, ensuring exceptional strength and durability. powerful 40-watt diode laser precision cuts the materials, preventing any micro cracks that could compromise the structural integrity. Trust in our commitment to quality for a reliable and long-lasting product.
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To find out more about these materials select them for website-link
Techniques
We leverage state-of-the-art 3D printing and laser technology to craft our frames. We've made enhancements and upgrades to ensure the ideal mix of tools for delivering outstanding results.
FDM 3D Printing
Recent advancements in 3D printing significantly enhanced the quality and reliability of semi-industrial printers. Leading the charge is Bambu Labs with their flagship model, the X1-Carbon, a core XY print platform specifically designed for processing engineering and fibre enhanced resins. With high bed and nozzle temperatures, Lidar scanning, anti-vibration algorithms, this AI-assisted printer consistently produces high-quality parts for us time after time.
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We have also made special modifications to get even better performance from these machines:
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DiamondBack black diamond tipped nozzles
Hardened metal gear sets
Lightweight extruder hous
Improved air flow using omnidirectional fan ducks
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3D Annealing
We anneal our CF & Nylon parts in a temperature-controlled oven for up to 12 hours to enhance strength and prevent delamination. This process aligns the plastic's internal structure, improving layer fusion and resulting in greater durability and reliability for exceptional performance.
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Post Treatment
We prioritize your safety and well-being. That's why we go the extra mile to ensure carbon and glass fiber printed parts are safe to handle. By applying a double coating of acrylic matte sealer, we significantly reduce the risk of microscopic filings penetrating the skin and causing harm over time. Trust us to deliver not only quality products but also peace of mind with every part.
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Warranty
With every order of our kits you get some generous extra parts that always seem to get lost somehow on set as well as the proper key for setting up your rig. We also warranty our plastic parts for 3 years against defects in manufacture from normal use. Replacements are sent out no questions asked and for the first year shipping is free worldwide. See our details. on our store page.