This project was the result of a need for a portable lightbox solution, on a smaller budget than the cost of any store-bought equivalent. I had a lot of fun designing and building this, and most of the materials I already had lying around the place. The entire project only took a few hours on a sunny afternoon to create.
It was made by myself with the help of my father, Simon Holmes. He is a registered electrician and electrical inspector, and he supplied the lighting materials and did the wiring, while I handled the design and construction.
MAIN FEATURES:
+ Portable
+ Lightweight
+ Can be taken on aircraft as secondary carry-on item
+ Runs off any mains-powered outlet
+ Collapsable handle for easy carrying
+ Lockable latches for security
+ The entire case is 99% waterproof. It will handle even a heavy downpour, anything short of being submerged
The briefcase I used was originally my father's from when he was teaching a pre-trade electricians course in Manukau City during the late 80s - early 90s. It is made from heavy-duty plastic with aluminium bracing and strong hinges. It is very light, and can carry a lot of weight, perfect for this project.
First I had to line the case with 10mm pine plywood for strength and to fix the lighting setup to. This was attached using strategically placed black rivets, almost invisible from the outside.
For the lights themselves, I chose fluoroescent tube lights. This was due to the fact they are mains-powered, very bright, do not produce much heat, long life, and eco-friendly. I chose 'cool white' bulbs for a cleaner, brighter glow.
The glass I used was the only tricky, expensive part of the project. It is custom-made, 5mm thick, toughened, ultra clear glass. It was cut to size at the local glazier, and features sandblasted edges to ensure a perfect fit. The smooth edges also make it easy to remove for cleaning/maintenance.
The power cord can be stored in the original leather insert, which also has room for pens and other bits and pieces, including a storage sheath located behind the lid for artwork.
Overall this is an all-in-one, portable tracing/light box - perfect for travelling, easy to put away and store, and in my opinion better than most store-bought examples (especially for a student on a budget).
Check out the pictures and my plans for future improvements below!
The case is very compact when closed, making is easy to store out of the way when not in use.
Close-up detail of the lockable latch and subtle rivet used to secure the inside of the case.
The open case, with the glass in place and then with the glass removed.
Detail of the storage insert, including a pin from the "NZ Electrical Institute Inc." where dad worked.
The open case, with both the glass and storage insert removed.
Detail of the wiring and light fixture, complete with protective sheathing.
The lighting arrangement ensures even light distibution.
The lights in action, ready for tracing.
Using the tracing box for a beer label I am currently working on.
FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS:
+ Opaque coating for glass to reduce glare and distribute light more evenly
+ Add a switch inside the case (currently runs straight from wall switch)
+ Lower weight by removing plywood and making a fiberglass/carbon fibre lining
+ Further weight saving could be achieved by using laser cut opaque acrylic sheet in place of the glass. The only issue with this is the plastic would have to be fairly thick to prevent flex when working on top of it.
If you like this project, please hit the 'appreciate' button, leave me a comment and don't hesitate to check out my other work on Behance! Your feedback is warmly welcomed!
