Artificial Window Ceiling Wash for Circadian Daylight Illusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminous panels used as substitutes for windows lack the aesthetic realism of natural sunlight and fail to provide adequate circadian stimulation and psychological cues, as they appear as uniform, stark fixtures rather than mimicking natural light through a window.
Innovation Solution
A luminous surface system comprising panels and ceiling emitters that simulate natural sunlight by emitting panel light to emulate the horizon and ceiling light to mimic the sky, with coordinated color and intensity gradients to create a realistic window illusion, providing circadian stimulation and psychological cues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If luminous panels are used as substitutes for windows, then adequate vertical Melanopic Lux and circadian stimulation are provided, but the aesthetic realism and psychological cues of natural sunlight are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The luminous panel is divided into multiple independently controllable zones or segments that can display different colors and intensities. This segmentation allows the panel to simulate the varying characteristics of natural sunlight across different times of day and weather conditions, thereby maintaining aesthetic realism while providing adequate circadian stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminous panel incorporates multiple LED channels or light sources that can change colors dynamically. By adjusting color temperature and hue over time, the panel mimics the natural color changes of sunlight throughout the day, from warm sunrise to bright midday to softer evening light, thus preserving psychological cues and aesthetic appeal.
2Use of energy by moving object
If uniform white luminous panels are used, then adequate light output is achieved, but the psychological cues and beauty of natural window light are eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The luminous panel transitions from a static uniform white output to a dynamic system that can change intensity, color, and distribution patterns over time. This dynamic behavior mirrors the natural variability of sunlight, providing psychological cues about time of day and weather conditions while maintaining adequate light output for circadian stimulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel controls multiple parameters including color temperature, intensity, and spatial distribution of light output. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system maintains adequate luminous output while simulating the changing characteristics of natural sunlight, thereby preserving psychological cues and aesthetic qualities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If commercial office space is converted to living accommodations, then housing shortage is addressed, but natural light availability in interior spaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The luminous panel serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides adequate vertical Melanopic Lux for circadian stimulation, creates aesthetically pleasing lighting that mimics natural sunlight, and can be installed in various interior spaces including those without windows. This multi-functionality makes it suitable for converted office spaces while addressing the natural light deficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The luminous panel creates an artificial copy of natural sunlight that replicates its key characteristics including color temperature variations, intensity patterns, and spectral composition. This copying allows interior spaces without windows to experience the psychological and biological effects of natural light, enabling successful conversion of office spaces to living accommodations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively mimics natural sunlight, enhancing interior aesthetics and occupant well-being by simulating daylight changes and circadian rhythms, offering a more convincing artificial window experience.
Implementation Method 1
at least one panel supported by the frame, the panel having first and second ends and an emission surface for emitting panel light
Implementation Method 2
at least one ceiling light emitter supported by the frame, the ceiling light emitter being configured to emit ceiling light upward toward a ceiling
Data Source
AI summary
An artificial sunlight system for wall installation comprising: one or more modules, each module comprising at least the following, (a) a frame configured to be installed on a wall; (b) at least one panel supported by said frame, said panel having first and second ends and an emission surface for emitting panel light, and said panel being configured to emit said panel light away from said wall when said frame is installed on said wall; and (c) at least one ceiling light emitter supported by said frame, said ceiling light emitter being configured to emit ceiling light upward toward a ceiling when said frame is installed on said wall.