When Kino Flo set out to develop a new range of slim profile LED panels to complement its popular FreeStyle series, two key design objectives were established early on. Beyond the commercial incentive to offer Kino Flo users easy integration with their existing FreeStyle systems, Kino Flo engineers were challenged to explore potential new benefits created by the latest composite materials technologies, and charged with imagining new ways to build longevity into a lightweight accessory.
The first challenge was met when FreeStyle Air product developers landed on a multicellular composite that exceeded expectations in all regards. This new material provided not only the rigidity needed to protect the fixture’s internal components during its intended production use, along with thermal properties that enhanced the passively-cooled design, but also came rated for use in hurricane conditions. For both ethical and legal reasons, Kino Flo discourages any of its customers from attempting to duplicate hurricane testing in the field, but does welcome their users to confidently enjoy the sun with FreeStyle Air, as these fixtures feature not only exceptionally strong structural components, but also UV stabilized LED covers that prevent risk of discoloration.
“We’ve built an established legacy of award-winning advancements in color science, so to now also receive recognition for our structural design innovations makes this FreeStyle Air patent particularly gratifying for us.” –Frieder Hochheim, Kino Flo founder
The now-patented answer to the second challenge – how to build longevity into a lightweight LED panel – came in the form of a new approach that addressed the need for a rigid, lightweight LED light panel that is easy to repair. FreeStyle Air’s new design makes maintenance and repair of the LEDs easier by improving and simplifying access to its multiple LED platens. These removable LED platens share a common edge for electrical connection at one end, such that power can be supplied to each individual LED platen in a FreeStyle Air fixture in a way that allows for protection of the wired connections while offering an important advancement in service-friendly design.
“The challenge in film is always simple solutions for good ideas.” – Antonio Riestra, ASC, AEC, ACK
In practical terms, FreeStyle Air features a removable upper rail and quick access to pull-out LED platens that are easily replaced or repaired. A simple solution in pursuit of a good idea. The patent awarded for achieving a new level of easy maintenance and service with FreeStyle Air marks the latest in a long line of awards recognizing Kino Flo’s technical contributions.
“When Kino Flo comes out with something, it fits really well and does exactly what you want it to do. Down the road, it’s nice to know that FreeStyle Air’s easily-serviced LED platens can be individually replaced in the field if needed. It gives these units longevity.” –Luke Seerveld, “Meet The Gaffer”
