Research on a bright light source: optics, technology and effects on humans

There are countless reasons why the Sun is essential: one of these is daylight. This light, that comprises both the component diffused by the atmosphere and the transmitted one, is the reference for a naturally lit scene, also being the main synchronizer of our circadian rhythms. I carried out my research in the framework of two European projects (COELUX and SKYCOAT), coordinated by the University of Insubria, which were related to the reconstruction of natural light indoors. In such a context, in collaboration with the consortium partners but mainly with the spin off CoeLux Srl, my research dealt with the bright light source used to artificially recreate the sun, regarding the optical design, the technological implementation and the effects produced on humans. The approach is interdisciplinary, involving different branches of science as well as technology, psychology and business perspectives. These aspects were analyzed, insofar as relevant, in order to design, optimize, and realize the prototypes. The actions that were carried out and are reported in this work comprise: the definition of the requirements for creating a valid light source, a review of the state of the art related to the areas of interest, the development of a solution meeting all the requirements and the characterization and testing of the prototypes. The LED-based light projector that includes the results of this work perfectly suits the CoeLux technology and is a cornerstone in the study of effects on humans.