A study published in Lighting Research and Technology explores the growing interest in human-centric lighting (HCL), an approach that seeks to integrate the visual and non-visual effects of light to improve people’s health and well-being.
The article, titled “Human-centric lighting: Myth, magic or metaphor?”, was written by a multidisciplinary team of experts from institutions including Oregon State University and Stanford University. The authors argue that while HCL has scientific foundations, it is often clouded by exaggerated marketing claims.
Real Benefits and Marketing Myths
HCL is defined as lighting designed to achieve specific visual, biological, and behavioural responses. However, the authors prefer the term “integrative lighting” to avoid sensationalism and focus on the real benefits of well-designed lighting.
The study highlights that light not only affects visibility and visual comfort but also circadian rhythms, and neuroendocrine and neurobehavioral responses, which are crucial for human health. Light can change pupil size, acutely suppress melatonin, modulate alertness, body temperature and heart rate, and adjust the timing of circadian rhythms. Furthermore, it has been shown that appropriate lighting can improve outcomes in educational and work environments, such as classrooms and offices.
The researchers underline the importance of considering both visual and non-visual effects when designing lighting systems, as light influences a wide range of human responses, from the immediate perception of glare to long-term effects on mental and physical health. Integrating these insights into lighting design can lead to solutions that not only improve visibility and visual comfort but also promote people’s overall health and well-being.
Integrative Lighting Design
The paper identifies four key variables in lighting design: spatial patterns, light spectrum, light level, and temporal patterns. Of these, the temporal pattern is the most critical, as the brain uses light-dark cycles to regulate circadian rhythms.
The authors suggest that integrative lighting practice should prioritise bright days and dark nights, aligning with natural biological rhythms. This involves designing environments that allow for high light exposure during the day and minimising light exposure at night.
Shared Responsibilities
The study also addresses the responsibilities of different stakeholders in implementing HCL. Designers and architects must integrate knowledge about the effects of light into their projects, while lighting equipment manufacturers must develop solutions that support integrative lighting.
HCL is neither a myth nor magic, but a metaphor for what good lighting has always been about supporting human outcomes. The authors conclude that, although current knowledge is incomplete, it is possible to design lighting systems that prioritise and balance the multiple effects of light on people’s psychophysiological functioning.
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KUMUX presents an innovative technological solution in dynamic lighting, focused on human well-being. KUMUX’s technological development involves artificial intelligence to automatically adjust interior lighting, mimicking natural sunlight patterns. This real-time adjustment is based on data such as geolocation, time of day and light conditions, creating spaces that promote health.
What distinguishes KUMUX is its ability to apply scientific knowledge about circadian rhythms and the influence of light on well-being, offering customised lighting solutions that are not available on other platforms. In addition, it is compatible with various lighting control systems, which facilitates its integration into any project.
By automating and optimising lighting, KUMUX not only improves the visual effect of lighting but also impacts the non-visual component of light and its impact on humans. The combination of advanced technology, focus on human well-being and science makes KUMUX a pioneering solution in the integrative lighting market.
