Image Engineering lightSTUDIO User manual

Image Engineering GmbH & Co. KG ·Im Gleisdreieck 5 · 50169 Kerpen · Germany
T [phone] · F [phone] · www.image-engineering.com
lightSTUDIO
User Manual
November 9, 2022

Image Engineering
Seite 2von 32
CONTENT
1SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS............................................................................................... 4
1.1 For the Image Engineering lightSTUDIO................................................................... 4
1.2 For the Image Engineering iQ-LED Devices.............................................................. 5
2INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................. 6
3ADDITIONAL HARDWARE............................................................................................. 7
3.1 iQ-Trigger/iQ-Trigger-T.............................................................................................. 7
3.2Timecode display ......................................................................................................8
4USAGE WITHOUT SOFTWARE..................................................................................... 9
4.1 Standard lightHEAD (lightSTUDIO-S)........................................................................ 9
4.2 LED lightHEAD V2 (lightSTUDIO-L)........................................................................ 10
5SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION.................................................................................. 11
5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 11
5.2 Installation............................................................................................................... 12
5.3 Settings................................................................................................................... 13
5.3.1 Moving option settings (lightSTUDIO-M)........................................................... 13
5.3.2 Timecode display settings (lightSTUDIO-M)..................................................... 13
5.3.3 Usage of LED lightHEAD.................................................................................. 14
5.4 Hardware status bar................................................................................................ 16
5.5 Module overview ..................................................................................................... 16
5.5.1 Sequence lists.................................................................................................. 17
5.5.2 Modules for Moving option ............................................................................... 18
5.5.2.1 Translation ............................................................................................................................18
5.5.2.2 Rotation.................................................................................................................................19
5.5.2.3 iQ-Trigger..............................................................................................................................19
5.5.3 Modules for Illumination.................................................................................... 20
5.5.3.1 Standard lightHEAD..............................................................................................................20
5.5.3.2 LED lightHEAD......................................................................................................................21
5.5.3.3 HDR box................................................................................................................................22

Image Engineering
Seite 3von 32
5.5.4 Timecode Display............................................................................................. 23
5.5.5 Module spectral measurement ......................................................................... 24
5.5.6 Sequence player .............................................................................................. 25
6SPECTROMETER RECALIBRATION (LIGHTSTUDIO-L)............................................ 25
6.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................. 25
6.1.1 Important information:....................................................................................... 25
6.1.2 Tools................................................................................................................ 25
6.1.3 Preparation....................................................................................................... 26
6.2 Removing the Spectrometer.................................................................................... 27
6.2.1 Accessing the spectrometer (lightSTUDIO-L)................................................... 27
6.2.2 Accessing the spectrometer (lightSTUDIO-LM)................................................ 28
6.2.3 Remove the USB-Cable................................................................................... 28
6.2.4 Free the fiber.................................................................................................... 28
6.2.5 Unscrew the spectrometer................................................................................ 29
6.3 Shipping.................................................................................................................. 30
6.4 Installing the freshly calibrated spectrometer........................................................... 30
7COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARKS............................................................................... 31
7.1Trademarks............................................................................................................. 31
7.2 Copyright Information.............................................................................................. 32

Image Engineering
Seite 4von 32
1 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1.1 For the Image Engineering lightSTUDIO
The following general safety instructions must be observed when operating the
lightSTUDIO:
Caution, the lightHEAD is heavy - several people are required for assembly!
Wear safety shoes when moving the lightSTUDIO!
The control cabinet must not be opened. Failure to do so can result in an
electric shock!
Before connecting the device to the supply voltage, the operator must
ensure that the supply connections (socket) are correctly grounded!
Before commissioning, all cables (main power cable, USB cable to the PC,
and the remote emergency stop switch cable) must be laid so there is no
risk of stumbling or cable damage!
Before each device start-up, the interior must be checked for the correct
position! A minimum safety distance of 5 cm between the interior and
movement planes of the moving chart and rotating disc must be observed!
The device safety bar must be pulled out entirely before using the device!
The operator must check that the chart is securely fastened each timebefore
starting the device!
Only personnel trained by the manufacturer may attach the chart!
Only trained personnel may operate the device!
The device may only be operated with an equipped chart!
When the device is switched on, all people present must maintain a safety
distance of 2 meters from the device! Otherwise, the device must be
switched off using the main switch!
The extended device bar must not be bypassed or manipulated!
There is a risk of hitting your head when replacing the spectrometer. Ensure
that appropriate head protection is used.

Image Engineering
Seite 5von 32
1.2 For the Image Engineering iQ-LED Devices
WARNING AGAINST OPTICAL RADIATION!
Some of the LEDs of the iQ-LED are emitting invisible light in the IR and near
UV area:
DO NOT look directly into the emitted light or look through the optical LED
system, this can cause irreversible eye damage.
DO NOT look directly into the open sphere or light source when using high
intensities or sequences with low response time.
DO NOT open the device when connected to power supply and without
any instructions from the the Image Engineering support team.

Image Engineering
Seite 6von 32
2 INTRODUCTION
lightSTUDIO is a lightbox for the illumination of a scene with different standardized light types.
Two types of light heads are available: the Standard lightHEAD and the LED lightHEAD. The basic
version contains six light sources with a blue filter (~10000 K). All light sources can be dimmed from 1-
100% to set an appropriate light level. The LED version uses 20 narrow bands and two white LED
channels for the creation of almost every desired spectral distribution. A spectroradiometer provides
feedback to the control software to ensure spectra and intensities are accurately reproduced. Spectral
distributions can be changed rapidly within 25 ms.
lightSTUDIO-M is an extension with two moving targets, a horizontally moving frame, which can be
equipped with any test chart, and a rotating plate on the back wall that can carry different round test
charts. The velocity of both moving options can be varied over a wide range.
The HDR option adds the capability to generate high-contrast scenes in the center part of the back
image. Two LG4 lightboxes can produce a contrast ratio of up to 10.000:1 when the surrounding
illumination is dimmed, and they can also be equipped with different transparent test charts.
All variants of lightSTUDIO are equipped with interior objects which represent a wide range of real-
world situations. Amongst these is, for example, a ColorChecker for measuring the color reproduction
and the white balance.
lightSTUDIO can be controlled in all combinations by software using a USB connection to a Windows
PC. The Standard lightHEAD is also controllable with a panel on its front side.
NOTES FOR READING THIS MANUAL:
Numbers in square brackets [ ] in the text refer to the red numbers in the images.
Text in italics refers to labels on control elements of the software.
DEFINITION:
The term illuminant in the context of the lightSTUDIO is used as follows: The combination of
a relative spectral response curve (predefined or measured) and an illumination value in lux,
which is achieved at a dedicated position in the lightbox. This information is saved in a
proprietary file format with a file ending .iqilluminant. Illuminants must be generated before
the LED lightHEAD can be used.

Image Engineering
Seite 7von 32
ATTENTION:
Since version 1.6.0, the creation of illuminants for the LED lightHEAD is no longer available
in the lightSTUDO software and now must be performed in the iQ-LED software. The
lightSTUDIO software shares the same directory for all files, depending on the LED
lightHEAD, with the iQ-LED software. See chapter 4.3.3 for details.
3 ADDITIONAL HARDWARE
Depending on the equipment of the lightSTUDIO, some additional hardware is delivered. The
lightSTUDIO-M also includes a timecode display and a mechanical finger (iQ-trigger).
3.1 iQ-Trigger/iQ-Trigger-T
iQ-Trigger is a mechanical finger that can be used to press the release button of a camera in a
reproducible way. iQ-Trigger is shipped with a hydraulic adjustment arm that holds the iQ-Trigger and
an L-shape holder on a mounting plate (Manfrotto
Type 405).
The L-shape holder can be mounted to a geared
head, or a tripod with the Manfrotto RC4 rapid
connect system. The adaptor plate has a ¼''
screw for compact cameras.
The iQ-Trigger comes with two different fingers,
including a solid finger for general use and a
finger with a touch pen tip. To exchange the
fingers, tighten the knurled screw at the back of
the iQ-Trigger until the magnet is locked, then
screw off the finger and replace it with the other
one. Untighten the knurled screw again.
Please remember that the front foam adds an
extra delay when using the touch pen finger.
Also, use the knurled screw on top of the iQ-Trigger to adjust the travel distance of the finger. The
further the screw is turned in, the shorter the distance the finger has to move.
As a general rule, try to set the travel distance as short as possible. A smaller travel distance implies
more power and less delay. iQ-Trigger is controlled with the software (chapter 0).

Image Engineering
Seite 8von 32
The iQ-Trigger-T is intended for use with touch screens on mobile devices. Please read the iQ-Trigger
manual for further information on iQ-Trigger-T usage.
For use with the lightSTUDIO-M, plug the cable of iQ-Trigger or iQ-Trigger-T into the corresponding
6,3 mm port of the electrical control cabinet of the lightSTUDIO.
3.2 Timecode display
The timecode display is used for tracing movement and illumination scenes over time. For example,
the movement of the horizontal test chart in the Moving lightSTUDIO may be scrutinized for artifacts in
captured images or videos. Another possible application might be the examination of changes in the
adaption of the camera to rapid light changes with the LED lightHEAD. The timer also has a counter
mode to enumerate different capture scenes. For an example, see the sample video on the
lightSTUDIO product page on the Image Engineering website.
The timecode display shows the time in the format MM:SS.MS [1]. The maximum time is 99 min, 59 s,
and 999 ms. Bars with 50 LEDs are placed above and below the digits [2, 3]. The flashing LED ticker
denotes the progress in units of 1/100 s; thus, all 100 LEDs are illuminated subsequently one time per
second.
To start the operation, connect the timecode display with the power supply [9]. With the remote push
buttons for resetting and starting/stopping [7, 8], the display can be operated remotely from outside the
lightbox. For use with the software, connect the display with the USB cable to the electrical control
cabinet (see chapter 5.5.4).

Image Engineering
Seite 9von 32
With the “Mode” button [5], the display can be switched between counter and timer functionality. In
timer mode, the external push button connected to the jack plug “Start/Stop” [8] toggles between
running and pausing. In counter mode, the button is used for incrementing. In both modes, the display
can be reset with the built-in reset button [4] or the external reset button connected to the jack plug
“Reset” [7].
For use with the lightSTUDIO-M, plug the USB cable of the timecode display into the corresponding
USB port of the electrical control cabinet of the lightSTUDIO.
4 USAGE WITHOUT SOFTWARE
Depending on the chosen combination, some parts of the lightSTUDIO can be used without the
software. The lightHEAD-S and lightHEAD-L are equipped with a control panel on the front side, which
comprises switching light sources, adjusting intensities, and storing the intensity value for each light.
The translation and rotation of the lightSTUDIO-M are only accessible utilizing the software. The
timecode display may also be used as a stand-alone device (chapter 3.2).
4.1 Standard lightHEAD (lightSTUDIO-S)
For the initial operation, select a light source using one
push-button [2, 3] after turning on the power supply. Press
the “Light ON/OFF”[1] button to illuminate the
corresponding light source.
The control panel has eight knobs for switching the lights:
four for the fluorescent lamps F12, F11, D50, and D65 [3]
and four for the halogen lamps [2]. The latter have different
preset values for the intensities of 10 lx, 100 lx, 400 lx, and
one for 400 lx with blue filtering. The knobs for the three
halogen settings use the same lamp type but with a different
current supply. With the rotary knob [4], the intensity for all
light sources can be varied from 0 to 100% in 1% steps.
To store an intensity setting for one type, keep the corresponding knob pressed and press the “Store”
knob [1] until the display shows the result.
With the knob “LCD backlight” [5], you can adjust the background lighting of the display panel.
NOTE:

Image Engineering
Seite 10 von 32
Only one light source can be illuminated at the same time.
It may take some minutes until the color temperature and illuminance of the lamps are
reliably stable. All values measured in the acceptance protocol were measured three minutes
after switching on the lights.
4.2 LED lightHEAD V2 (lightSTUDIO-L)
The lightHEAD with iQ-LED V2 technique adds more functionality and a more comprehensive
illuminance range (25 - 2000 lux) to the previous lightHEAD version. See the datasheet for more
technical information. The lightHEAD incorporates a control panel, which enables the user to use it
without a connection to a PC.
Usage of control elements:
[1] Hold the power switch for two seconds to turn the LED light on and off.
[2] [3] Switch between 44 stored illuminants. Use iQ-LED software > V3.0.0 to generate and store
illuminants on the lightHEAD.
[4] It plays and interrupts a sequence of illuminants. Use iQ-LED software > V3.0.0 to generate
and store a sequence on the lightHEAD. Three default illuminants are stored upon delivery of
the device: A, D50, and D75, with intensities noted in the acceptance protocol.
[5] Displays the memory slot number of an illuminant. Read the iQ-LED software manual
instructions to see how the number is assigned to an illuminant.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Image Engineering
Seite 11 von 32
6] The Trigger Out socket can not be controlled with this software, and it is automatically
triggered when illuminants are switched. The duration of the output signal (short circuit) is 500
ms. A 3.5 mm mono jack can be plugged into the socket, and an additional iQ-Trigger USB
box can be connected here.
[7] Only available on LED lightHEADs built before December 2020:
Power and intensity control knob for fluorescent lamp F11.
Press the button to turn the lamp off.
5 SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION
5.1 Introduction
The lightSTUDIO is a Windows software designed to control the lightSTUDIO and its components
(Moving target option, Standard or LED lightHEAD, HDR box, timecode display, and iQ-Trigger). Each
part can be accessed and controlled separately. Moreover, sequence lists can be created for
simultaneous processing, including test chart movements and illumination with the lightHEADs and
HDR box. The graphical user interface (from now on, referred to as GUI) offers a complete overview of
all components simultaneously and quick access to creating an intuitive workflow with the
lightSTUDIO. Each component functions as a plug-in for the software, which switches the
corresponding module in the GUI on or off when a device is connected or disconnected.

Image Engineering
Seite 12 von 32
The GUI display of a lightSTUDIO-LMH with LED lightHEAD, HDR box, moving test charts, iQ-trigger
and timecode display.
5.2 Installation
Please choose the proper installer (32 or 64-bit) for your Windows operating system and run it. During
installation, some drivers and additional software are installed. For proper software function, allow all
drivers and software to be installed. The software installations include:
- Microsoft .NET Framework
- Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable (2008, 2013, 2015)
- Java 7 Runtime

Image Engineering
Seite 13 von 32
5.3 Settings
5.3.1 Moving option settings (lightSTUDIO-M)
In the Moving option settings dialog, specifications can be modified for some components of the
Moving lightSTUDIO.
The default translation velocity [1] defines the transportation speed of the moving test chart in a range
between 0.01 and 3.0 m/s. This value is used for the movement when clicking the move left, move
home,or move right buttons and as speed for the return movements of a sequence.
The iQ-Trigger mode menu [2] offers three options for the behavior of the iQ-Trigger:
One-shot mode: iQ-Trigger is released once with the start/stop button and stays activated with
a predefined duration time, as edited in the corresponding field below.
Toggle mode: iQ-Trigger is released by clicking the start/stop button and stays activated until
the next click on the button.
Continuous mode: iQ-Trigger is released by pressing the start/stop button and stays activated
until the button is released.
The iQ-Trigger release time [3] denotes the duration of the iQ-Trigger release when the one-shot
mode is selected. The minimum time is 0.1 s.
5.3.2 Timecode display settings (lightSTUDIO-M)
1
2
3
1
2

Image Engineering
Seite 14 von 32
The Connect timecode display with sequence tool [1] option allows the time code display to start
simultaneously with the sequence. The delay time [2] defines a time lag after which the display starts.
5.3.3 Usage of LED lightHEAD
With the LED lightHEAD, more functionality and flexibility are available compared to the Standard
lightHEAD. iQ-LED technology generates individual illuminants with predefined illumination values and
can quickly switch between them.
All calibration and creation of illuminants for the lightSTUDIO software must be performed in the iQ-
LED software. Always use the current version of the lightSTUDIO and the iQ-LED software. Read the
iQ-LED software manual and familiarize yourself with the calibration procedure and the creation of
illuminants.
Illuminant creation:
Illuminants are the essential basis for illuminating the LED lightHEAD. They consist of a relative power
spectral distribution in the visual range from 380 nm to 780 nm and an illuminance value (measured in
cd/m2or lux). These illuminants are generated with the iQ-LED software. All illuminant files and other
calibration data are saved to this directory:
C:\Users\<user>\AppData\Roaming\Image Engineering\iQ-LED\binV3\data
The Lightstudio software loads all data from this directory and makes them available for use.
1. Start with calibration and illuminant creation in the iQ-LED software
2. Close the iQ-LED software (never run the iQ-LED and the Lightstudio software at the same
time, two software instances can not communicate with the hardware controllers at the same
time)
3. Start Lightstudio software and use the illuminants directly (see chapter LED lightHEAD)

Image Engineering
Seite 15 von 32
Reference illuminance measurement:
When performing an illuminance measurement according to the iQ-LED manual, be aware that the
reference illuminance measurement for the acceptance protocol was measured at this position:
The initial illuminance measurement was performed at 25 cm distance from front side.
Spectral calibration:
Recommendations for calibration repetition:
During the first 600 working hours of the lightSTUDIO, perform a spectral calibration every 50
operating hours.
After the first 600 operating hours, a calibration of every 150 working hours is sufficient.

Image Engineering
Seite 16 von 32
5.4 Hardware status bar
The status bar gives information about the connected hardware components. If a component is
available in your lightSTUDIO configuration, it is highlighted in green. The release state of the safety
clamp is also displayed.
NOTE:
If the safety clamp is pushed in, the internal control unit stops the power supply to the motors
immediately. All buttons for the translation or rotation functions are disabled in the software.
Pull the clamp out until it reaches the stop position to enable usage of the translation and
rotation functionality.
5.5 Module overview
Each component of the modular lightSTUDIO can be controlled separately. The software's plug-in
mechanism only displays modules connecting to the corresponding hardware device. If a device is
connected during runtime, the module appears in the GUI.

Image Engineering
Seite 17 von 32
5.5.1 Sequence lists
Each hardware control module in the software, except the timecode display, has five buttons and a
table for sequence editing. Lists for sequences of movements, rotations, iQ-Trigger releases, and
illumination (lightHEAD and HDR option) can be edited with a table, modified, and saved for reuse. All
sequence lists can be executed simultaneously.
When the button [1] is activated, the sequence is started by clicking the play button (chapter
Sequence player). If the button [1] is activated, none of the control items in each module can be used
to avoid disturbance of the sequence. If the loop button [2] is activated, the complete sequence list for
this component of the lightSTUDIO is repeated infinitely until the user stops the sequence.
There are three buttons when editing the list: a new row is added to the table with the button “+” [3].
Button [4] deletes a selected row, and a button [5] clears the whole table. Move the mouse cursor over
the info button [6] to display useful technical data about the corresponding device.
While editing the fields of a table, the values are validated for the
wrong input. Velocities in rotation and translation are verified for
applicability (see data sheet for limits), and times are checked for
overlapping ranges. The numbers entered may have a decimal
notation using a ‘.’ or a ‘,’. Missing values are highlighted in red.
The buttons [1] and [2] are only enabled if the table is complete.
All sequences can be added to thr sequence tool in every desired
combination.
All lists can be saved and opened in the File menu or with the keyboard shortcuts Ctrl + S and Ctrl +
O.

Image Engineering
Seite 18 von 32
5.5.2 Modules for Moving option
The lightSTUDIO-M incorporates three functionalities: the translation chart, the rotation chart, and the
iQ-Trigger. The three modules are displayed in the software for controlling these devices. The iQ-
trigger is connected to the lightSTUDIO directly without the iQ-Trigger USB box, which is part of the
lightSTUDIO-M. The iQ-Trigger may be used as a stand-alone device with a USB box. See the
documentation of the iQ-Trigger for further details.
5.5.2.1 Translation
Each time the program is started, a calibration movement of the (translational) chart must be
performed to define a so-called home position for the motor control. Click the home button [1] to start
the procedure: the chart moves to the center and then to the final destination on the right side.
This procedure can be performed at any time; it is obligatory in the following cases:
•The main power of the lightSTUDIO is turned off during the runtime of the program
•The safety clamp is released
•One of the emergency stop switches of the lightSTUDIO is released.
Now all other functions are enabled. With the right [2], center [3],or left [4] buttons, the chart is moved
to the very right, center, and very left positions with default velocities (see chapter 5.3.1).
In the sequence table, translational movements for the test chart can be edited. Values between 0.001
and 3.0 m/s can be entered in the velocity column. Movements from left to right or reverse are
available in the direction column. If two subsequent directions in the list are equal, a return movement
is inserted with a default velocity defined in the settings (chapter 5.3.1).
NOTE:
Compared to the illumination list or the rotation list, a translation of the test chart is not
triggered by start and end times but only by the velocity setting. Due to varying acceleration
and deceleration of the motor, the duration for one period can only be estimated. The
progress bar for the translation hints at how long it lasts, but it may not be highly exact.

Image Engineering
Seite 19 von 32
5.5.2.2 Rotation
In the sequence table, movements for the rotating chart can be edited. There are three columns
available. The first contains the start times, the second the end times for a period of rotation, and the
last column the velocity in revolutions per minute (RPM). The velocity must be in the range between
-360 and 360 RPM. Positive values let the plate rotate counterclockwise, and negative values
clockwise.
The periods must not overlap in time, and negative times are not allowed. A message dialog is
displayed if a time value entered is invalid. To insert a break of rotating, enter a later start time for a
specific period than the end-time of the precedent period. Inserting a row with velocity 0 has the same
effect.
5.5.2.3 iQ-Trigger
The iQ-Trigger device allows you to release your camera button with the software. You can release iQ-
Trigger with the play/stop button [1] depending on the settings in the options menu (chapter 5.3.1) in
the one-shot, toggle, or continuous mode. A status bar at the bottom displays the progress of the iQ-
Trigger in the released state. In the sequence list, time stamps for the release of the iQ-Trigger can be
edited. At each time stamp, the iQ-Trigger is released for the time defined in the settings (chapter
5.3.1).
1

Image Engineering
Seite 20 von 32
NOTE:
Due to mechanical construction, the mechanical finger of iQ-Trigger is limited in continuous
operation:
- Maximum time in the released state: 60 s
- Shortest release time: 100 ms
- For continuous operation, the duty cycle must not be longer than 50% (duty cycle = the ratio
of release time to period).
The mechanical finger may heat up or be destroyed if operated for a long time in a released
state without interruption.
5.5.3 Modules for Illumination
Three illumination devices are available: the Standard lightHEAD and the LED lightHEAD. The HDR
kit with two LG2 light boxes is also available as a separate option. All three have panels in the
software.
5.5.3.1 Standard lightHEAD
If a Standard lightHEAD head is delivered with your lightSTUDIO, the illumination module lets you switch
the corresponding lamps on and off [1] and set the intensity [2]. Only one lamp type can be illuminated
at one time; hence, switching one lamp type on turns all others off. There are six types of lamps: F11,
F12, D50, D65, Halogen (H), and Halogen with a blue filter (Hb.f.). Clicking a lamp type button during the
first run of the program turns the respective lamp on with an intensity of 100%. If the intensity is varied
with the slider or input field [2], the value is stored during runtime, thus setting the lamp intensity when
turned on again.
The sequence list shows four columns. The first and second columns define a period's start- and end
times. In the third column, the lamp type is selected. In the fourth column, the intensity can be varied
between 0 and 100%.