SMALP: A Context-Aware Lamp That Adjusts Light Automatically
Background
Organic Light-Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) represent a cutting-edge lighting technology that excels in efficiency, particularly in scenarios requiring frequent on/off cycling. Unlike traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, OLEDs generate light through direct electron-hole recombination in organic materials, eliminating the need for high startup energy or thermal processes. This results in minimal energy loss during transitions, instant illumination, and negligible impact on lifespan. These features make OLED lamps ideal for dynamic or sensor-activated environments. Below is a comparative analysis of lighting technologies based on their performance under frequent on/off cycling.
| Aspect | Incandescent | Fluorescent | OLED |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transition Efficiency | Low(high energy spike) | Moderate (ballast energy) | High (minimal transition loss) |
| Lifespan Impact | Significant (shortened) | Significant (reduced lifespan) | Minimal impact |
| Energy Consumption | High (inefficient overall) | Moderate (best left on) | Low (optimal for cycling) |
| Instant On/Off | Moderate | Delayed | Instantaneous |
Design Contest by LG Chem
Lighting is often taken for granted as a simple tool for illuminating dark spaces, but I saw potential for much more. What if a lamp could not only light up a desk but also communicate essential information and save energy effortlessly? That idea became the foundation for SMALP—a Smart Adaptive Lamp—designed to react to its user's context and adjust its illuminance automatically.
The journey began when LG Chemical hosted a design contest for their newly developed OLED panel. I took on the challenge to create a lamp that was not just functional but also intelligent. From scratch, I designed and developed SMALP’s form factor, hardware, and software, and to my delight, it won the Best Design Award.
Features
- Remote Control: Through the SMALP app, users can adjust the OLED panel's brightness remotely, providing convenience at their fingertips.
- Physical Button: A capacitive sensor allows users to adjust brightness or turn the light on and off with a simple touch.
- Call and Message Notifications: SMALP transforms lighting into a communication tool, turning on for calls or blinking for important text messages.
- Automatic Absence Detection: If the user leaves the room, SMALP turns off after a minute, conserving energy without requiring manual action.
Winning the contest wasn't just about creating a functional lamp—it was about reimagining what a simple household object could achieve. SMALP represents the future of human-centered design, where everyday tools seamlessly integrate into our lives to enhance convenience, communication, and sustainability.