LEDs that make people feel better

LEDs are known for providing bright, efficient light, but Samsung Electronics says the lighting technology can also have a positive effect on human mood. Samsung has unveiled what they term as the first "human-centric" LED packages, collectively known as LM302N. The LM302N family reportedly helps human bodies adjust melatonin levels indoors, making people feel more energetic or relaxed depending on their daily life patterns.

“The benefits of using Samsung's LM302N reach beyond the basic lighting function of visual recognition, by improving the non-visual biological effects of lighting on people,” said Un Soo Kim, senior vice president of the LED Business Team at Samsung Electronics, in a statement. “Our LED solutions are ushering in a whole new human-oriented approach of using artificial lighting to enhance productivity and relaxation, benefitting modern-day indoor lifestyles.”

Melatonin, a hormone which regulates the sleep-wake cycle, responds to the cyan wavelength range of light. Brighter cyan-concentrated lighting suppresses the body’s production of melatonin, increasing concentration and enabling a greater overall sense of alertness. Similarly, a lower cyan light intensity minimizes disturbances to the natural onset of the body's melatonin production, helping to promote sleep quality.

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According to Samsung, the LM302N utilizes precisely designed light spectra with optimized amounts of cyan to accommodate lighting needs at any given point in time. LM302N DAY improves alertness and the LM302N NITE enhances relaxation. The 3.0 x 3.0 mm LEDs can fit in a wide range of lighting fixtures and are protected against humidity and heat.

The LM302N DAY can suppress the body’s melatonin level more than 18% below that of conventional LED lighting. Available in various color temperatures from 3000K to 6500K, the DAY package can be used in diverse indoor applications, such as schools, offices, libraries and industrial sites, to enhance an individual’s sense of awakeness and energy level.

The LM302N NITE can provide a proper level of brightness without hindering the release of melatonin, helping people to maintain the hormone level as if they were in a calm natural atmosphere at night. The body releases about 5% more melatonin under lights with the LM302N NITE packages than conventional LED packages, increasing relaxation.

By comparison, spending a lot of time under conventional nighttime lighting can cause excessive alertness that makes it harder to fall asleep, said Samsung. Additionally, the LM302N NITE is offered in color temperatures between 1800K and 4000K, providing design flexibility to bring the benefits of relaxing light to a variety of lighting spaces.

The DAY and NITE packages can also be combined into a single luminaire to help people maintain their natural circadian rhythm 24 hours a day. This duo-lighting option is optimal for those who spend most of their time indoors and struggle with confused body clocks.