Dynamic Illumination Control for Human Performance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current light control methods for illumination systems can cause irritation and deteriorate human performance due to abrupt changes in lighting parameters, such as pulsed lighting and switching between modes, which affect alertness and concentration.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic light control method that adjusts illumination parameters like vertical illuminance and color temperature at a target location using controllable luminaire systems, varying these parameters in a controlled and monotonous manner to avoid sudden changes, with predetermined levels and time periods selected to improve human performance and reduce irritation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If pulsed lighting or switching between illumination modes is used to increase alertness and concentration, then human performance is improved, but irritation is caused and life quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehuman performanceVSAvoidirritation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by continuously varying illumination parameters (color temperature, illuminance) over time rather than using static or abruptly switched modes. The system dynamically adjusts parameters based on time of day, task requirements, and user preferences, creating smooth transitions that avoid irritation while maintaining performance benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic action through circadian rhythm-based lighting cycles that mimic natural light patterns throughout the day. Illumination parameters are periodically adjusted to align with biological rhythms, providing alertness during work hours and relaxation during evening periods, thereby improving performance without causing irritation from abrupt changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Productivity

If illumination parameters are varied to change emotional and physical states, then human performance is improved, but sudden changes cause irritation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehuman performanceVSAvoidirritation from sudden changes
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining multiple illumination scenarios and schedules that anticipate user needs before they arise. The system prepares appropriate lighting conditions in advance based on time of day, scheduled tasks, and user preferences, then smoothly transitions between pre-planned states rather than making sudden changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by continuously and smoothly varying illumination parameters (color temperature, illuminance, spectral power distribution) rather than making abrupt switches. The system controls the rate of parameter changes to remain below perceptible thresholds, thereby transitioning between emotional and physical states without causing irritation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Object-affected harmful factors

If illumination parameters are kept constant to avoid irritation, then comfort is maintained, but performance improvement through state switching is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecomfortVSAvoidperformance improvement
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing dynamic illumination that automatically adapts to different times of day and task requirements. The system provides constant, comfortable lighting during periods when uniform illumination is optimal, while smoothly transitioning to performance-optimizing parameters when tasks require enhanced alertness or relaxation, thereby maintaining comfort while enabling performance improvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11612040B2Dynamic light control method for controlling at least one illumination parameter
Publication Date: 2023.03.21 LEDVANCE GMBH
  • US11612040B2 patent drawing
  • US11612040B2 patent drawing
  • US11612040B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A dynamic light control method for controlling at least one adjustable illumination parameter at a target location has been suggested. The method comprises setting the value of at least one adjustable illumination parameter at a first predetermined level, maintaining the value of the at least one adjustable illumination parameter at the first predetermined level for a first predetermined time period, varying the value of the at least one adjustable illumination parameter from the first predetermined level to a second predetermined level, maintaining the value of the at least one adjustable illumination parameter at the second level for a second predetermined time period, and varying the value of the at least one adjustable illumination parameter from the second level to a third predetermined level, wherein the varying the at least one adjustable illumination parameter comprises monotonously varying the at least one adjustable illumination parameter with a predefined maximum variation rate.