German innovators Markus Kraetzig and Sophie Kupke, both of whom are based in the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems, have developed a truly innovative LED lamp that is capable of monitoring sound in its surrounding space and changing color accordingly.
When the room is quiet, the lamp showcases a soothing green color. However, as the noise begins to pick up, the color changes to amber, much like a traffic light. When the noise then elevates to a higher level, the lamp begins to flash red, before going on to sound an alarm if noise levels don't start reducing within five seconds. The volume of the alarm can be manipulated to sit anywhere between 70 and 100 decibels. Users are also able to use the lamp in a more conventional fashion by setting it to only exhibit one of the three colors.
By using integrated microphones to monitor and respond to sound, this innovative LED lamp aims to introduce an added layer of functionality beyond conventional lighting and decoration aspects.
Image Credit: Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems
What's Driving This Trend
- Sound-sensitive Lighting
- New lighting products that change color and brightness in response to surrounding noise levels offer opportunities in home, office, and entertainment settings.
- Integrated Sensor Technology
- Innovation opportunities exist in integrating sensor technology into various products such as lighting, furniture, and appliances for added functionality and automation.
- Alert Systems with User Control
- Alert systems that provide users the ability to customize sound and volume settings could become more prevalent in spaces where noise levels can be disruptive.
Who This Affects Most
- Smart Home Technology
- Sound-sensitive LED lamps and other sensor-integrated devices tie into the growing market for smart home products.
- Workplace Design
- Sound-sensitive lighting can be integrated into workplace design to reduce distractions and increase productivity.
- Entertainment Technology
- Sound-responsive LED lighting can provide an attractive and interactive element for entertainment venues and events.
