This document describes a light display designed to mimic the calming effects of a sunset in order to increase melatonin levels and promote relaxation and sleep. The display uses orange light which, unlike blue light, does not disrupt melatonin production. It was inspired by research on how sunlight and circadian rhythms are controlled by melatonin and serotonin levels affected by light exposure. The goal was to design a product that creates a soothing atmosphere to naturally increase melatonin in the evening, similar to the feelings evoked by a sunset.

1. DEPARTMENT OF
PRODUCT DESIGN
lux
Zoë McClatchey
Aberdeenshire, Scotland
zoe.mcclatchey@btinternet.com
+44 7947979032
Oslo and Akershus University College of applied sciences
Exchange from Edinburgh Napier University.
melatonin
Inspired by the sun and how it affects our circadian rhythms,
this light display is designed to mimic the calming glow
and atmosphere of a sunset. The glow of the orange light
increases your melatonin levels resulting in you feeling more
relaxed and naturally preparing your body to fall asleep.
Our circadian rhythms 24-hour
sequence is mainly controlled by
serotonin and melatonin levels which
intern are primarily affected by light
exposure. When the sun raises and
we are exposed to light, production of
the hormone serotonin is stimulated,
when our exposure to light decreases,
the sunsets, our melatonin levels start
to increase.
Using artificial light in the evening
before going to bed shuts down
melatonin production coursing
disrupted sleep patterns. By using
an orange or red bulb and filtering
the light we can eliminate the blue
rays that pause the production of
melatonin.
After extensive research in the
importance sunlight has on our
circadian rhythms i have come to
design a product that creates a
calm soothing atmosphere that will
help users naturally increase their
melatonin levels in the evening.
I have designed a light sculpture
inspired by the imagery of a sunset
that also gives off the same calming
atmosphere as a sunset itself. The
aesthetics of my product are to look
familiar to the user, so they can make
the same associations and feeling with
my product as they do to an actual
sunset.
Ideal for a bedside lamp, creating a
calming and relaxing atmosphere.
Orange Lighting, lowers the amount of
blue ray exposure.
The sunset was a key part of my
inspiration for this design.