Can fluctuating LED lights raise our energy levels in the office?
Phillips has designed a system of LED lights which aims to support the wellbeing of employees in the workplace. According to the designers behind the invention, the LED lights have the ability to provide a similar energy boost as drinking a cup of coffee.
The specially designed LED lights now feature in the newly renovated headquarters of energy firm Innogy based in Czech Republic. Following the installation of the lights, the manager at Phillips commented: “We've taken our knowledge of how light physiologically benefits people from successful projects in hospitals and schools and applied it to the offices space”.
The LED lights have been programmed to change in brightness and colour warmth levels throughout the day to increase the energy levels of employees at specific times. For instance, at the beginning of the day the lights are altered to mimic natural daylight and remain dim until after lunch time where employees are given another energy boost.
Employees are able to override the lighting system and tailor the lights to their needs at any time by using the touchpad control, which can also be used to raise or lower the blinds.
150 sensors have been installed around the office so that human presence can be detected and that if a room is empty, the lights will automatically turn off. Combining this system with the energy efficient LED lights has the potential to reduce electricity consumption by 50%.
The adaptable lights and the open office design was a part of a wider programme to improve the ‘comfort, wellbeing and productivity’ of Innogy’s 550 employees who work across the three buildings. Other features include the installation of a new restaurant which offers healthy dishes and creativity spaces to help employees to expand their imagination.
Phillips is now testing the integrated LED lighting system in public spaces with sensors and cameras in place to build a picture of when moods might change and become aggressive in the busy, nightlife district in Eindhoven. Scented and coloured lights have been attached to lampposts and it is hoped that the calming aromas from the lights can influence individuals and are able to change their state of minds. Can LED lights really have a significant impact on our behaviour?
