Patent Publication Number: US-2015062906-A1

Title: Portable framing projector

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/872,488 entitled “PORTABLE FRAMING PROJECTOR” and filed on Aug. 30, 2013 for Glenn Merlin Johnson, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     This invention relates to framing projectors and more particularly relates to a portable framing projector. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A framing projector is a light fixture typically used to illuminate a target, which is often art, an architectural element, a specific location, etc. Typical framing projectors are mounted in a ceiling or to a track in a fixed position and include one or more lenses to direct light in a specific direct so that the light is in the form of a beam of light. Framing projectors typically include a slot with a custom template. The custom template is shaped to shade areas around the target so that light from the framing projector falls on the target and not on areas beyond the target. This form of directing light at a target while excluding areas around the target provides a dramatic contrast to highlight the target with light. 
     Typical framing projectors are rigidly mounted so that a custom template can be created based on distance between the framing projector and target, based on the angle of light from the framing projector, etc. Precise mounting of the framing projector is desired to avoid additional adjustments or creation of more than one custom template. 
     SUMMARY 
     An apparatus for lighting includes a framing projector with a light source and one or more focusing elements that focus light from the light source on a desired area of an object. The one or more focusing elements are to prevent light from the light source from lighting areas outside the desired area. The apparatus includes a projector housing. The framing projector is mounted inside the projector housing. The apparatus includes an electrical cord terminating at a plug, where the plug is configured to plug into an electrical outlet. The electrical cord provides power to the framing projector. The apparatus includes a stand coupled to the projector housing and/or the framing projector. The stand maintains the projector housing and framing projector in an upright position above a substantially horizontal surface when the stand is positioned on the substantially horizontal surface. The stand supports the projector housing and framing projector against gravity loading of the apparatus. 
     In one embodiment, the stand is free from attachment to the substantially horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the stand includes a tri-pod. The tri-pod includes a base attached to the projector housing and three legs attached to the base. In a further embodiment, the tri-pod further includes an adjustable extension coupled to the base of the tri-pod and to the projector housing, where the adjustable extension adjusts to vary a height of the projector housing from the substantially horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the one or more focusing elements include a telescopic lens. 
     In one embodiment, the framing projector includes one or more adjustable shutters movably coupled to the framing projector, where the shutters are adjustable to shape light from the framing projector and/or an iris assembly connected to the framing projector, where the iris assembly includes an adjustable iris. In another embodiment, the framing projector includes a slot. The slot is shaped to accommodate a custom template. The custom template is shaped for the object illuminated by the framing projector. In a further embodiment, the slot includes a slot for an adjustable shutter and the custom template replaces the adjustable shutter. 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a power converter. The power converter is mounted external to the projector housing and is coupled to the stand. The power converter receives power from the electrical cord and provides power to the framing projector. The power converter converts electrical power from the electrical cord to a different form prior to providing power to the framing projector. In one example, the power converter includes a ballast for the light source, an LED driver, a switching power supply and/or a transformer. In another example, the power converter includes a portion of the stand and the power converter includes a base housing surrounding the power converter. The base housing includes a lower portion in contact with the substantially horizontal surface, and the apparatus includes a support that extends from the base housing to the projector housing and is arranged to support the projector housing. The base housing and the support make up the stand and the base housing maintains the projector housing in the upright position above the substantially horizontal surface. 
     In one embodiment, the projector housing includes an exterior in the shape of a spot light shape, a telescope shape, or a theatrical spotlight shape. In another embodiment, the stand is shaped as a bird cage surrounding the projector housing where a window in the bird cage allows light from the framing projector to illuminate or an observatory shape wherein the projector housing is shaped as a telescope extending from the observatory. 
     Another apparatus for lighting includes a framing projector with a light source and one or more focusing elements that focus light from the light source on a desired area of an object. The one or more focusing elements prevent light from the light source from lighting areas outside the desired area. The apparatus includes one or more adjustable shutters movably coupled to the framing projector, where the shutters are adjustable to shape light from the framing projector, an iris assembly connected to the framing projector, where the iris assembly includes an adjustable iris, and/or a slot shaped to accommodate a custom template, where the custom template is shaped for the object illuminated by the framing projector. The apparatus includes a projector housing, where the framing projector is mounted inside the projector housing, and an electrical cord terminating at a plug. The plug is configured to plug into an electrical outlet, and the electrical cord provides power to the framing projector. 
     The apparatus includes a stand coupled to the projector housing. The stand maintains the projector housing and framing projector in an upright position above a substantially horizontal surface when the stand is positioned on the substantially horizontal surface, and the stand supports the projector housing and framing projector against gravity loading of the apparatus. The stand includes a tri-pod, where the tri-pod has a base attached to the projector housing and three legs attached to the base. 
     In one embodiment, the tri-pod includes an adjustable extension coupled to the base of the tri-pod and to the projector housing, where the adjustable extension adjusts to vary a height of the projector housing from the substantially horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the apparatus includes a power converter. The power converter is mounted external to the projector housing and is coupled to the stand. The power converter receives power from the electrical cord and provides power to the framing projector. The power converter converts electrical power from the electrical cord to a different form prior to providing power to the framing projector. In another embodiment, the power converter includes a portion of the stand. The power converter also includes a base housing surrounding the power converter, where the base housing includes a lower portion in contact with the substantially horizontal surface. The apparatus includes a support that extends from the base housing to the projector housing and which is arranged to support the projector housing. The base housing and the support make up the stand. The base housing maintains the projector housing in the upright position above the substantially horizontal surface. In one embodiment, the projector housing includes an exterior in the shape of a spot light shape, a telescope shape, or a theatrical spotlight shape. 
     Another apparatus for lighting includes a framing projector with a light source and one or more focusing elements that focus light from the light source on a desired area of an object. The one or more focusing elements prevent light from the light source from lighting areas outside the desired area. The apparatus includes one or more adjustable shutters movably coupled to the framing projector, where the shutters are adjustable to shape light from the framing projector, an iris assembly connected to the framing projector, where the iris assembly includes an adjustable iris, and/or a slot shaped to accommodate a custom template, where the custom template is shaped for the object illuminated by the framing projector. The apparatus includes a projector housing, where the framing projector is mounted inside the projector housing. The projector housing includes an exterior in the shape of a spot light shape, a telescope shape, or a theatrical spotlight shape. The apparatus includes an electrical cord terminating at a plug. The plug is configured to plug into an electrical outlet, and the electrical cord is for providing power to the framing projector. 
     The apparatus includes a stand coupled to the projector housing. The stand maintains the projector housing and framing projector in an upright position above a substantially horizontal surface when the stand is positioned on the substantially horizontal surface. The stand supports the projector housing and framing projector against gravity loading of the apparatus. The stand includes a tri-pod, where the tri-pod includes a base attached to the projector housing and three legs attached to the base. The tri-pod includes an adjustable extension coupled to the base of the tri-pod and to the projector housing, where the adjustable extension adjusts to vary a height of the projector housing from the substantially horizontal surface. The apparatus includes a power converter. The power converter is mounted external to the projector housing and is coupled to the stand. The power converter receives power from the electrical cord and provides power to the framing projector. The power converter converts electrical power from the electrical cord to a different form prior to providing power to the framing projector. 
     In one embodiment, the power converter includes a portion of the stand. The power converter also includes a base housing surrounding the power converter, and the base housing includes a lower portion in contact with the substantially horizontal surface. The apparatus includes a support that extends from the base housing to the projector housing and which is arranged to support the projector housing. The base housing and the support form the stand. The base housing maintains the projector housing in the upright position above the substantially horizontal surface. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1A  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of an apparatus with a portable framing projector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 1B  is an exploded view illustrating a portion of the embodiment of the apparatus with the portable framing projector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a side view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus with a portable framing projector in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a side view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus with a portable framing projector in a bird cage in accordance with the present invention; and 
         FIG. 4  is a side view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus with a portable framing projector in an observatory in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise. 
     Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network transactions, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention. 
       FIG. 1A  is a side view illustrating one embodiment of an apparatus  100  with a portable framing projector  102  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 1B  is an exploded view illustrating a portion of the embodiment of the apparatus  100  with the portable framing projector  102  in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus  100  includes, in one embodiment, the framing projector  102 , a projector housing  104 , an electrical cord  106 , and a stand  108 , a light source  110 , focusing elements  112 , legs  114 , a power converter  116 , a floor switch  118 , a plug  120 , which are described below. 
     The apparatus  100 , in one embodiment, includes a projector housing  104  with the framing projector  102  mounted inside the projector housing  104 . The framing projector  102  includes a light source  110  and one or more focusing elements  112  that focus light from the light source  110  on a desired area of an object. The focusing elements  112  help to prevent light from the light source  110  from lighting areas outside the desired area. A framing projector is often used in art galleries and other locations where paintings, sculptures, etc. are displayed. A framing projector illuminates an object, such as a painting, by illuminating a desired area of the object and not illuminating outside the desired area. For example, the desired area of a painting may be the painting while the frame or matting may be outside the desired area so the framing projector illuminates the painting without illuminating the frame or matting. Framing projectors are often designed to precisely illuminate a desired area with a distinct boundary between the desired area and the non-illuminated area outside the desired area. Framing projectors typically illuminate specific shapes, such as a square, a rectangle, or a custom shape, for instance for a sculpture. Typical framing projectors are mounted on a track or ceiling or within a recess and are fixed. 
     In one embodiment, the projector housing  104  encloses a framing projector  102  where the framing projector  102  may have a separate housing. For example, the framing projector  102  may be manufactured separately from the projector housing  104  and elements of the framing projector  102 , such as a light source  110 , focusing elements  112 , etc. are mounted within the housing of the faming projector. The framing projector  102  may then be mounted inside the projector housing  104 . For example, the projector housing  104  may have connectors, fittings, bolts, nuts, etc. to connect to the framing projector  102 . In the embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes an opening coincident with an opening in the framing projector  102  where light is emitted. 
     In one embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes openings to allow adjustment and operation of the framing projector  102 . In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  has removable parts to gain access to the framing projector  102 . For example, the projector housing  104  may be of a clamshell design with a hinge where the projector housing  104  may open to expose the framing projector  102 . In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  has ports, doors, etc. that are hinged, can be slid open, etc. to expose controls and elements of the framing projector  102 . 
     In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes openings where parts of the framing projector protrude. For example, an iris handle of the framing projector  102  may protrude through the projector housing  104 . In the embodiment, the projector housing  104  may include slots or other openings to allow movement of the elements protruding from the framing projector  102  through the projector housing  104 . In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes knobs, arms, levers, etc. that extend to controls of the framing projector  102 . For example, a lever on the projector housing  104  may extend to an on/off switch of the framing projector  102  so that the switch is operated as the lever is moved. One of skill in the art will recognize other ways to integrate a framing projector  102  with its own housing into the projector housing  104 . 
     In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  is integral with the framing projector  102  and parts of the framing projector  102 , such as the one or more focusing elements  112  and/or the light source  110  are attached to the projector housing  104 . For example, the projector housing  104  may be manufactured or fitted with elements to hold the interior components of the framing projector  102 . 
     In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  is shaped to resemble a particular type of light fixture. For example, the projector housing  104  may resemble part of a flood light, a search light, a spot light, a track head, or other decorative light fixture known in the art. The projector housing  104  includes a place where the framing projector  102  emits light to shine on the desired area of the object. In one embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes a cover for covering the opening when the framing projector is turned off. The cover may be attached with a hinge or other mechanism to secure the cover to the projector housing  104  or may be separate. In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes a connection to the stand  108 . In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  includes an opening for an electrical connection. The opening, in one embodiment allows an electrical cord or other covered conductors to enter the projector housing  104 . In another embodiment, electrical power enters the projector housing  104  through a connection to the stand  108 , for example through a hinge or rigid connection. 
     The apparatus  100 , in one embodiment, includes an electrical cord  106  terminating at a plug  120 . The plug  120  is configured to plug into an electrical outlet and the electrical cord  106  provides power to the framing projector  102 . The plug  120  may be configured based on local electrical requirements. For example, the plug may be configured based on the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (“NEMA”) standards and may be a NEMA 5-15 plug to fit in residential outlets, may be a NEMA 5-20 for 20 Ampere (“A”) outlets, a NEMA L5-15 or L5-20 locking plug, a NEMA 6-15 or 6-20 plug for 240 volt (“V”) operation, etc. Other countries have different standards. The electrical cord  106  and plug  120  may be configured to any applicable standard to provide appropriate power to the framing projector  102 . 
     In another embodiment (not shown) the framing projector  102  is battery powered. In another embodiment, the framing projector  102  receives power wirelessly. In one embodiment, the apparatus  100  includes a switch to turn power on and off to the framing projector  102 . The switch, in the depicted embodiment, is a floor switch  118  that allows a user to step on the floor switch  118  to turn power on and off to the framing projector  102 . In another embodiment, the switch is in the projector housing  104 . In another embodiment, the switch is internal to the projector housing  104  or other component of the apparatus  100  and is controlled wirelessly. In another embodiment, the switch is included with the power converter  116 . In one embodiment, the apparatus  100  includes a data connection and the switch is controlled via the data connection. In another embodiment, the switch is a multi-position switch to control various modes of lighting in the framing projector  102 . One of skill in the art will recognize other ways to configure a switch for the framing projector  102  to provide power to the framing projector  102 . 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus  100  includes a stand  108  coupled to the projector housing  104  and/or the framing projector  102 . The stand  108  maintains the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  in an upright position above a substantially horizontal surface when the stand  108  is positioned on the substantially horizontal surface. The stand  108  supports the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  against gravity loading of the apparatus  100  on the substantially horizontal surface, and may also support the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  against other forces, such as wind, being bumped, etc. The substantially horizontal surface may include a floor, a top of a piece of furniture, a table, a step, a platform, a sidewalk, pavement, or other substantially horizontal surface appropriate for placing the apparatus  100  to light an object with the framing projector  102 . 
     The stand  108  and electrical cord  106  with a plug  120  allow the apparatus  100  to be portable. The portable apparatus  100  is configured to be free-standing and configured to hold the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  in an upright position when placed on the substantially horizontal surface. The portable nature of the apparatus  100  allows the apparatus  100  to be moved with detaching the framing projector  102  from the substantially horizontal surface. The stand  108  is positioned under the projector housing  104 , in one embodiment, to be between the projector housing  104  and the substantially horizontal surface where the apparatus  100  is located. The apparatus  100  is configured so a user can pick up the apparatus  100  and to unplug the plug  120  and move the apparatus  100  to a different location. 
     Typically the stand  108  is designed to keep the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  stable when resting on the substantially horizontal surface. For example, the stand  108  may include a portion that contacts the substantially horizontal surface that extends horizontally so that the apparatus  100  is less vulnerable to being tipped over. In the embodiment depicted, the stand  108  is in a tri-pod configuration with three legs  114  that flare out from a connection to a base  122  of the stand  108 . In other configurations, the stand  108  may include more than three legs  114 . In one embodiment, the stand  108  includes an adjustable extension coupled to the base  122  of the tri-pod and to the projector housing  104 . The adjustable extension adjusts to vary a height of the projector housing  104  from the substantially horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the legs  114  are telescoping, have attachments, or otherwise are extendable to vary a height of the projector housing  104  from the substantially horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the stand  108  includes both legs  114  that extend as well as an adjustable extension coupled to the base  122  and to the projector housing  104 . 
     In one embodiment, the stand  108  is connected to the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  so that the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  may be rotated vertically and/or horizontally. For example, the stand  108  may include a gimbal mounting or hinge so that the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  may be adjusted so the beam of light from the light source  110  is adjusted vertically. In another embodiment, the stand  108  includes an adjustment so the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  may be rotated in a horizontal plane about a vertical axis. In another embodiment, adjustment of rotating the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  horizontally about a vertical axis is accomplished by rotating the entire apparatus  100 , including the stand  108 . In various embodiments, the stand  108 , framing projector  102 , and/or projector housing  104  include tightening mechanisms, such as friction mechanisms, nuts, bolts, braces, etc. to hold the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  in place with respect to the stand  108  after adjustment. In one embodiment, the framing projector  102  is adjustable with respect to the projector housing  104 . One of skill in the art will recognize other adjustment mechanisms. 
     In another embodiment, the stand  108  includes a vertical element, which may or may not be extendable, attached to a base that extends horizontally (not shown). For example, the base may be a round disk, may be legs that extend horizontally, or the like. In other embodiments, the legs may extend at various angles from the vertical element. In another embodiment, the substantially horizontal surface where the apparatus  100  is placed is not horizontal, but is on an angle or has irregularities, such as steps. In the embodiment, the apparatus  100  may include a stand  108  that adjusts for non-horizontal surfaces. For example, if the apparatus  100  is placed outside on a sloping sidewalk, the stand  108  may be adjustable to accommodate the slope. For example, if the stand  108  is a tri-pod, as depicted in  FIG. 1A , the legs  114  maybe telescoping and may be adjusted to accommodate for slope. As used herein, a “substantially horizontal surface” includes surfaces that are horizontal as well as sloped surfaces where a portable apparatus  100  may be placed such that the stand  108  holds the apparatus  100  upright without other supports. For example, a substantially horizontal surface may include a slope of up to around 45 degrees. One of skill in the art will recognize other configurations of the stand  108  that will support the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  above the substantially horizontal surface. 
     In various embodiments, the stand  108  and projector housing  104  are shaped to resemble various objects. For example, the stand  108  may be in the shape of a bird cage and the projector housing  104  may be inside the bird cage. In the embodiment the bird cage may support the projector housing  104  from above, below, from a side, etc. of the projector housing  104 . In one variation, the bird cage may include a window and the framing projector  102  may be pointed through the window. In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  may be in the shape of a telescope and the stand  108  may be in the shape of a telescope base. In another embodiment, the projector housing  104  may be in the shape of a theatrical spotlight and the stand  108  may be in the shape of a base for a theatrical spotlight. In another embodiment, the stand  108  may be in the shape of an observatory and the projector housing  104  may be in the shape of a telescope that extends through an opening in the observatory. One of skill in the art will recognize other designs for the stand  108  and projector housing  104  that will support a framing projector  102  above a substantially horizontal surface. 
     The framing projector  102  includes a light source  110 . The light source  110 , in one embodiment, is a point source or substantially a point source. In one embodiment, the light source  110  is an incandescent lamp. In another embodiment, the light source  110  is a ceramic metal halide lamp. In another embodiment, the light source  110  is a halogen lamp. For example, the halogen lamp may be in the form of a bulb or may be in an MR16 configuration. In another embodiment, the light source  110  is a light-emitting diode (“LED”) lamp. One of skill in the art will recognize other types of lamps that may be used as a light source  110  for the framing projector  102 . 
     The framing projector  102  also includes one or more focusing elements  112 . In one example, the focusing elements  112  include a reflector placed behind the light source  110 . Typically the reflector is parabolic and redirects light from the light source  110  in the direction of the object that is illuminated. The focusing elements  112  may also include one or more lenses, filters, etc. The lenses and filters may be used to focus light from the light source  110  or to filter unwanted wavelengths. For example, a filter may filter out ultraviolet light or may change a color of light from the light source  110 . 
     In one embodiment, the focusing elements  112  include adjustable paddles or shutters or a custom template. A custom template is often used in framing projectors and is shaped based on a particular object to be illuminated and based on a particular location of the framing projector and on light emission characteristics of the framing projector. In one embodiment, the framing projector  102  includes a slot for a custom template and a custom template may be created for the framing projector  102  where the framing projector  102  is placed in a specific location and a specific distance from a specific object. Where the framing projector  102  has its own housing and is mounted in the projector housing  104 , the projector housing  104  may include openings or other mechanisms to allow access to the focusing elements  112 . 
     In another embodiment, the focusing elements  112  include adjustable shutters and/or an adjustable iris. The adjustable shutters may include four shutters where a shutter is placed above, below, and on each side of a beam of light traveling through the framing projector  102 . Adjustable shutters are advantageous in a portable apparatus  100  with a framing projector  102  to allow adjustment of the shutters once the apparatus  100  is first set or is moved. For example, the portable apparatus  100  may be used at an art show where permanent or fixed placement of a traditional framing projector is impractical. The portable apparatus  100  may be set up on a temporary basis to shine light on a painting, for example, that is mounted temporarily at the art show. The adjustable shutters may be adjusted once the painting is hung and a suitable location is found for the apparatus  100  and the apparatus  100  is placed. If the apparatus  100  or painting are bumped or moved, the adjustable shutters may be easily re-adjusted. An adjustable iris on the framing projector  102  may also be adjusted. 
     Handles and/or other adjustment mechanisms for the adjustable shutters and iris, in one embodiment, extend through the projector housing  104 . In another embodiment, at least a portion of the projector housing  104  may be removed to access the handles and/or adjustment mechanisms. For example, a front half  104   a  of the projector housing  104 , as depicted in  FIG. 1B , may be removed to access the handles and/or adjustment mechanisms. In the embodiment, the stand  108 , connection to the projector housing  104 , etc. may be designed to remain steady as the front half  104   a  is removed and replaced. For example, the stand  108  may be designed with non-slip pads between the stand  108  and the substantially horizontal surface, the stand  107  may be heavy enough or may have a low center of gravity to help prevent movement, etc. One of skill in the art will recognize ways that the apparatus  100  may be designed to remain stable during adjustments. 
     In another embodiment, at least some of the handles/adjustment mechanisms may be reached without removing a portion of the projector housing  104  and other handles/adjustment mechanisms are accessible when at least a portion of the projector housing  104  is removed. In another embodiment, the framing projector  102  includes a slot for a custom template and accommodates an adjustable shutter and the custom template replaces the adjustable shutter. 
     In one embodiment, framing projector  102  includes adjustable shutters and/or an adjustable iris which are substantially similar to those described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/705,519 to Glenn M. Johnson, filed Sep. 25, 2012, which is included herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus  100  includes a power converter  116 . In one embodiment, the power converter  116  is a ballast for the light source  110 . A ballast is an electrical device that transforms input power, such as utility power, to a different form that may be used to start the light source  110 . For example, where the light source  110  is ceramic metal halide, the power converter  116  may be ceramic metal halide ballast. The ballast may change the input voltage to a different voltage, may change frequency, etc. The ballast may also include a starting mechanism that provides a specific electrical pulse to the light source  110  to get the light source  110  to an illuminating state. 
     In another embodiment, the power converter  116  includes an LED driver that illuminates an LED. In another embodiment, the power converter  116  includes a transformer. In another embodiment, the power converter  116  includes an alternating current (“AC”) to direct current (“DC”) converter and may include a switching power supply. For example, the power converter  116  may transform the input voltage from 120 V AC to 12 V DC or other DC voltage. In another embodiment, the power converter  116  includes multiple stages. For example, the power converter  116  may include a stage to convert from what is available in one country (i.e. 120 V AC, 60 hertz (“Hz”) to what is available in another country 220 V AC, 50 Hz and a stage that is a ballast. 
     The electrical cord  106  may be in one form on an input side of the power converter  116  and in another form between the power converter  116  and the framing projector  102 . For example, the electrical cord  106  between the power converter  116  and the framing projector  102  may have a different number of conductors, different insulation level, may have a different wire gauge, etc. from the electrical cord  106  feeding the power converter  116 . In one embodiment, the power converter  116  is external to the projector housing  104 . In another embodiment, at least a portion of the power converter  116  is internal to the projector housing  104 . 
     In one embodiment, the power converter  116  is external to the projector housing  104 , as depicted in the apparatus  100  of  FIG. 1A . For example, the power converter  116  may include a housing and may be mounted below the projector housing  104  as shown. The projector housing  104  may be placed to contribute to a lower center of gravity for the apparatus  100 . In one embodiment, the power converter  116  is suspended from the substantially horizontal surface as depicted in  FIG. 1A . In another embodiment, the power converter  116  is mounted to the stand  108  to contact the substantially horizontal surface. In another embodiment, the power converter  116  is connected to a tube, rod, etc. that extends through the stand  108  to adjust the height of the projector housing  104 . In another embodiment, a cord  106  runs from the power converter  116  to the stand  108 , the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102 . 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus  100  does not include a power converter  116 , and a weighted element is integral with the stand  108  and is positioned to provide stability to the apparatus  100 . For example, the weighted element may be placed close to the substantially horizontal surface. In another example, the weighted element includes a housing or other decorative element that adds to the appearance of the apparatus  100 . One of skill in the art will recognize other ways that the power converter  116  and/or weighted element may be integrated with the apparatus  100  to add stability and to add to the intended look of the apparatus  100 . 
       FIG. 2  is a side view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus  200  with a portable framing projector in accordance with the present invention. The apparatus  200  includes a framing projector  102  (not shown), a projector housing  104 , an electrical cord  106 , a power converter  116  (not shown) and a plug  120 , which are substantially similar to those described in regard the apparatus  100  of  FIGS. 1A and 1B . The apparatus  200  also includes a stand  108  with a base housing  202 , a support  204 , and a switch  206 , which are described below. 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus  200  includes a power converter  116  that is a part of the stand  108 . The power converter  116  includes a base housing  202  surrounding the power converter  116 . The base housing  202  includes a lower portion in contact with the substantially horizontal surface and is connected to a support  204  that extends from the base housing  202  to the projector housing  104  and is arranged to support the projector housing  104 . The base housing  202  and the support  204  comprise the stand  108 . The base housing  202  maintain the projector housing  104  and framing projector  102  in the upright position above the substantially horizontal surface. 
     For example, the power converter  116  may have a base housing  202  that is shaped to be in contact with the substantially horizontal surface and to maintain the support  204 , projector housing  104 , and framing projector  102  in the upright position. The base housing  202  may include a horizontal element that rests on the substantially horizontal surface or may extend horizontally with legs, pads, etc. that touch the substantially horizontal surface. The base housing  202  may be rectangular, circular, semispherical or other shape. In one embodiment, the power converter  116  is in the projector housing  104  and the base housing  202  is shaped, sized, and/or weighted to provide a stable base for the apparatus  200 . Having the power converter  116  and other elements of the apparatus  200  in the base housing may provide a lower center of gravity for the apparatus  200  to enhance stability. In one embodiment, the base housing includes one or more weights to lower the center of gravity of the apparatus  200 . 
     In one embodiment, the apparatus  200  includes a support that extends from the base housing  202  to the projector housing  104  and/or the framing projector  102 . The support  204  may be fixed or may be adjustable to adjust a height of the framing projector  102 . In one embodiment, the apparatus  200  is sized to be placed on furniture, on a stand, on a table, etc. and may be shorter than the apparatus  100  of  FIGS. 1A and 1B . In one embodiment, the base housing  202  includes a switch  206 . In other embodiments, the switch may be a floor switch  118  or other switch as described above in relation to the apparatus  100  of  FIGS. 1A and 1B . One of skill in the art will recognize other ways to implement a switch that interrupts power to the framing projector  102  and/or the power converter  116 . In one embodiment, the support  204  includes one or more adjustment mechanisms to allow movement of the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  to adjust an angle of the projector housing  104  and/or framing projector  102  vertically and/or horizontally, substantially as described above in relation to the stand  108  of the apparatus  100  of  FIGS. 1A and 1B . 
       FIG. 3  is a side view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus  300  with a portable framing projector  102  in a bird cage in accordance with the present invention. The apparatus  300 , in one embodiment, includes a framing projector  102  (not shown) in a projector housing  104  with a stand  108  comprising a base housing  202  and a support  204 , an electrical cord  106 , and a plug  120 , which may be similar to those described in relation to the apparatus  200  of  FIG. 2 . The apparatus  300  includes a bird cage  302  with a door  304 , which are described below. 
     The bird cage  302 , in one embodiment, includes an apparatus  200  as depicted in  FIG. 2 , which may be supported by a floor of the bird cage  302 . In another embodiment, the bird cage  302  does not include a floor and the bird cage  302  slips over the projector housing  104  and stand  108 . In another embodiment, the bird cage  302  is part of the stand  108 . For example, wires of the bird cage  302  may support the projector housing  104 . In one embodiment, the apparatus  300  includes a base housing  202  with a power converter  116 . In another embodiment, the power converter  116  is external to the bird cage  302 . In another embodiment, the apparatus  300  does not include a power converter  116 . 
     The bird cage  302  may include decorative features such as a door  304  or a window (not shown). The decorative features may also be functional. For example, the door  304  may allow access to the projector housing  104  or other components and the window may provide an opening for shaped light from the framing projector  102 . 
       FIG. 4  is a side view illustrating another embodiment of an apparatus  400  with a portable framing projector  102  in an observatory in accordance with the present invention. The apparatus  400 , in one embodiment, includes a framing projector  102  (not shown) in a projector housing  104  with a stand  108  comprising a base housing  202  and a support  204 , an electrical cord  106 , and a plug  120 , which may be similar to those described in relation to the apparatus  200  of  FIG. 2 . The apparatus  400  includes an observatory  402  with an opening  404 , which are described below. One of skill in the art will recognize other features of a bird cage that may be included in the bird cage  302  of the apparatus  300 . 
     The observatory  402 , in one embodiment, includes an apparatus  200  as depicted in  FIG. 2 , which may be supported by a floor of the observatory  402 . In another embodiment, the observatory  402  does not include a floor and the observatory  402  slips over the projector housing  104  and stand  108 . In another embodiment, the observatory  402  is part of the stand  108 . For example, wires of the observatory  402  may support the projector housing  104 . In one embodiment, the apparatus  400  includes a base housing  202  with a power converter  116 . In another embodiment, the power converter  116  is external to the observatory  402 . In another embodiment, the apparatus  400  does not include a power converter  116 . 
     The observatory  402  may include decorative features such as an opening  404  or a door (not shown) or other features common to a real observatory. The decorative features may also be functional. For example, the door may allow access to the projector housing  104  or other components and the opening  404  may provide an opening for shaped light from the framing projector  102 . The opening  404  may have a door to open and close, much like a real observatory. In one embodiment, the projector housing  104  is shaped like a telescope. The telescope may extend out of the observatory  402  or may be completely enclosed by the observatory  402 . One of skill in the art will recognize other features of an observatory that may be included in the observatory  402  of the apparatus  400 . 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.