Modular Indirect Lighting With Programmable LED Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current lighting systems lack the ability to create customizable and dynamic lighting effects that can simulate natural phenomena such as sunsets, night skies, and other environmental conditions, limiting user experience and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular lighting systems that include hand-painted sky murals lit by indirect cove lights, combined with programmable LED lighting control systems that can mimic sunset and night sky effects, and utilize distributed control methods for varying intensity and pattern creation, allowing for customization and simulation of sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset, as well as twinkling star effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lighting systems are used, then installation is simple, but customization and dynamic lighting effects cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into modular components including ceiling panels with integrated lighting elements, control modules, and interchangeable inserts. Each panel can be independently customized and installed in different configurations, allowing versatile lighting designs without requiring complete system replacement or complex wiring.
Solution Approach 2:
The ceiling panels are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as structural ceiling elements and as integrated lighting devices. The same panel framework supports various lighting inserts (LED, fiber optic, fluorescent) and can be controlled through multiple protocols (DMX, wireless), providing universal adaptability across different application scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed lighting patterns are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but dynamic effects like sunset simulation and twinkling stars cannot be created
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system transitions from static to dynamic operation through programmable control sequences. Lighting elements can change intensity, color, and timing to simulate natural phenomena such as sunset gradients, moonrise effects, and twinkling star patterns. The system responds to temporal variations and creates immersive atmospheric effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates feedback mechanisms where lighting outputs are monitored and adjusted to achieve desired effects. Sensors detect ambient light conditions and user interactions, allowing the system to adapt lighting patterns in real-time and maintain precise control over dynamic sequences despite variations in installation environments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are used, then customization is enabled, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into standardized modular panels that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each panel contains integrated mounting features and electrical connections designed for quick attachment to ceiling grids, reducing installation complexity despite the modular nature. Panels can be pre-configured with different lighting inserts before installation.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into single integrated components. The ceiling panels combine structural support, electrical wiring channels, lighting element mounting, and control signal distribution in one unified module. This integration reduces the number of separate installation steps and simplifies the overall assembly process despite the customizable options.
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
Enables easy installation and customization of lighting effects, providing a dynamic and immersive experience by simulating various natural lighting conditions, enhancing user experience through programmable and customizable lighting solutions.
Implementation Method 1
reveal a night sky full of twinkling fiber optic stars
Implementation Method 2
lit by an indirect cove light
Implementation Method 3
indirect cove light
Data Source
AI summary
A lighting system can comprise a frame, a material attached on a front facing surface of the frame and a plurality of LEDs mounted within the frame. Light emitted from the LEDs is directed to the material from behind the front facing surface of the frame. In some of these embodiments, the material passes a portion of the emitted light thereby causing the transmitted emitted light to appear as if light reflects or emanates from a front surface of the material. A controller is described that controls color of the emitted light to form patterns on the front surface of the material. The plurality of LEDs can include different colored LEDs, multi-color LEDs and RGB LEDs. The RGB LEDs can be controlled to respond to a video signal, thereby displaying a video image on the material. The material comprises a textured material and may possess a three-dimensional profile.


