Experimentation
November 7, 2019
Gallery of Lighting Examples
I went around campus finding the most interesting lighting set ups. While looking over these photos, I noticed that the lights that caught my eye were the ones that involved a hidden lightbulb and an interesting diffusion of light. Besides Tepper’s ringed florescent tubes, the lightbulbs were hidden in a very interesting fashion.
On the bottom left photo, we see the hidden florescent tube peaking out from its hidden corner. From any other angle, it just looks like a beam of light coming out from the crevice, similar to the top right photo, taken at the Exchange. Other light fixtures used interesting diffusion techniques, like shining the light against the wall or ceiling. Both of these techniques seem to accentuate a unique architectural element, like the Exchange’s modern borders or the molding above the light. In the case of Posner’s lighting (top left), it seems to be more of a decoration, for the light fixture seems to float away from the wall instead of being mounted. In fact, the Exchange’s light set up makes the top layer of the building look like it’s floating as well.
Other lights had a very interesting “lamp shades.” The light two rows down and two to the right has an interesting cloth-like lamp shade, causing an interesting grain.
Experimenting with Printer Paper + Adhesives
In this experiment, I focused on adhesives (glue stick, scotch tape, and masking tape) and layering.
The glue stick turned out well from far away, but when you got closer, you could see a certain texture at some points where the glue was unevenly spread. If I were to use glue in the future, I would be more careful about how the glue is distributed along the paper.
Surprisingly, the scotch tape did not show at all through the printer paper. However, though it is invisible at the “on” state, it is visible at the “off” state.
It is a given that the masking tape would show through the paper, but I wanted to explore exactly how much it would show. I made the inner tube the one with the masking tape to see if it would still show through after a few layers, and it did not show through. In fact, it was the overlapping of the paper that showed through much more than the masking tape.
As seen in the photo, the printer paper has a light grain to it. Also, not only does the paper get darker when there are more layers, it also emits a pink-orange color. I believe this is a combination of the warm yellow light and the paper’s properties.
I also found that diffusion differs with distance. When the paper is near the light source, it has a harsher and more concentrated glow than when the paper is farther away.
Experimenting with the Overlap
Due to the prominent overlap seen in the three-tiered light experiment, I decided to play with it by making it into a spiral. The outside would look like a clean tube, and yet when it lit up it would reveal a spiral. It was interesting, but I didn’t account for the harsh straight line. I think in the future I will try a triangular shape, for there wouldn’t be a straight downward line created.
Also, with this tall cylinder, I found how far the light reached before it began to gradient towards darkness.
I wasn’t really satisfied with either light that I created, and I became curious to see what would happen if I slipped this one over the previous experiment, and this was the result:
The whole effect of the lamp was much darker, and the pink property of the printer paper became much more prominent. Another thing I found interesting was how the outer layer masked the ugly overlapping in the three-tiered lamp due to the distance. The bottom layer is visible for it is pressed up against the outer layer, but the others are in a way diffused like the light, making it invisible.
However, the interesting layers within the lamp create a very interesting effect.
Experimenting with Shapes + Types of Paper
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Printer Paper
I experimented with other shapes with the printer paper as well, like this square folded into eighths. The lamp creates a very interesting shadow where it hits the table.
Paper Towel
The paper towel created a soft light and an interesting grain, but because it is a paper towel, the structure is very flimsy. It is very easy to damage and wrinkle it, making the off state not as appealing.
Marker Paper
On the other hand, the marker paper had very little grain, producing a clear white light. Personally, I liked this a lot, for it was a pure light with little distractions. The overlap was still visible, but not as prominent as the printer paper. Even when I wrinkled it up into a ball most of the light went through the paper. This may be ideal for a reading light, for I can layer the paper without sacrificing the light quality.
The triangular form that I tried was fun, and I think that if I had extended to overlap onto one side, I could have played off the overlap a lot better. It would have just seemed that one side was darker than the rest.
For the crinkled ball, I found the texture made a very interesting light effect, like a glowing ball. The on and off states of the crinkled ball are very different. (The off state just looks like a paper ball that didn’t make it to the trash can.) This I found very compelling.
Sketch Paper
I found the thick paper that I bought for the communicative shapes project and decided to test it out. This paper was much sturdier compared to the rest, and I was surprised that the light shined through — quite a lot of it too. Also, as a result of the thicker paper, the overlap between the two papers was very dark and obvious.
The cone also seemed to have more of a glowing affect compared to the cylinder and triangular prism. That’s because the light frays out towards the top, and the cone stays within where the light is still prominent.
Rice Paper
I found rice paper in the studio, so I decided to try it out. I really like the grain the rice paper had. It was smaller but much more comforting compared to the grain of the paper towel.
However, similar to the paper towel, the rice paper had a weak structure, and you can see that the sides of the cube are not straight but wobbly.
I had a long rectangular hanging lamp that I make for fun, and I added the rice paper cube over it to add to the modern look.
I think this kind of lamp would be suitable for a modern professional environment, like in a lounge or a new business building.
Further Exploration
November 9, 2019
Observations
While walking on Walnut St. (from Blick) I noticed a couple of very interesting lights that I decided to document for inspiration.
The string lights in the first photo caught my attention due to the way it was hanged. The strings are in organized chaos, creating a dreamy, fairylike affect, a very fitting environment for the mannequin doing yoga. I also really liked how the lights reflected off of the glossy white board, which seems to continue the lights, instead of stopping it right there.
In a ramen place, we found interesting lights hanging from the ceiling. The inside was a cloth cylinder that diffused the light, and it had Japanese calligraphy on it. On the outside, it had wooden cut outs of koi fish and bamboo, paired with wire. I found this mix of media very compelling.
The ramen place also had wooden panels on the walls with these lit glass tiles in between them. It featured an interesting grain that make me want to examine it further.
Analyzing Bedside Lamps
Function
Because my task is to create a bedside reading lamp, I decided to analyze the one I have. A reason why I chose this one compared to the other choices is because I liked the round shape, and it looked more like a source of light. The others looked like a stick with a light, and the ones on the right remind me of an angular fish’s head light, which made me uncomfortable. I’m also not too fond of the wire stand, for it reminds me of a tentacle.
It seems that the only purpose of the light is for reading, and it doesn’t really take into account the environment next to the bed.
Fashion
On the other hand, this bedside lamp is my mom’s. It emits a very soothing light, and the texture of the lamp is very interesting. It is a little too busy in my opinion, however. The light itself is also not bright enough to read a book with. This bedside light is the opposite of mine. It created a soothing experience in bed but does not create a bright enough light to read with.
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Takeaways:
- Something simple and yet distinctive draws attention (not complicated/confusing)
- Keep in mind both forms — a soft one for next to the bed and a task light for reading
- Explore grains, they add another dimension
- Bedside lights are typically on tables
Sketch Models
November 12, 2019
Sketch #1
To address the issue of finding a way to remedy the weird overlap, I cut out a large triangle and curved it into a cylinder. This created a very interesting “X” design at the front, and I found that very interesting. It’s elegant and yet simple. It also lets out a lot of light, which is ideal for a reading lamp.
I tried out layering too, by using 2 of the tiers from the 3 tier lamp to see what effect it would create. The cylinder sticking out is not ideal, but the layered effect is very interesting to see, but I think in this case the clean look is better, since the “X” takes up so much attention.
Sketch #2
I was curious as to how much paper it took to block out most of the light. I ended up using 12 sheets of printer paper before it blocked out most of the light. Even so the paper emitted a pink hue.
Sketch #3
I further explored layering through gluing the paper together to see how they interacted. It was interesting to see how the shades of grey seem to mix together, and the overall effect is calming and eye-catching.
Sketch #4
I had been exploring with additive properties, so I decided to take a subtractive approach to see what would happen. As a result, I cut rectangles from two sides of the cubic figure, and added another layer of paper inside to keep the light comfortable diffused instead of harsh. I found this process to create an interesting effect as well. Because the layers are not glued together, in the off state you can see a clear contrast due to the shadow. That’s something one cannot see as prominently in Sketch #3.
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Sketch #5
For this approach, I decided to try to weave the paper together. I found the “on” state to be very interesting, for the light seems to create bright lines where the weaving connects. However, the “off” state reminds me of a Chinese finger trap. This is probably not the most appealing lamp.
Sketch #6
At this point, I noticed that I had been exploring mainly with simple cylindrical and rectangular shapes. I decided to explore a different form, and used a long obtuse triangular shape to create a spiral. This was the result. It reminds me of a conch shell.
Prototyping
November 14, 2019
Prototype #1
For the first prototype, I wanted to observe how the light would reflect against the stacked papers, similar to the weaving in Sketch Model #5. I took strips of tabloid paper and cut slits to stack it together. I noticed that you could see the lightbulb between the gaps, so I diffused the light with marker paper. I think this created an interesting effect in both the on and off positions. The shadow of the light is also especially interesting.
Prototype #2
For the second prototype, I wanted to explore a light that had more direction to it. I really enjoyed the layering of the paper from Sketch Model #3, so I decided to do something similar. I used 3 kinds of paper layered from darkest to lightest (printer paper, marker paper, tracing paper). That way, it would lead the eye into the bright light in which you would use to read the book. It worked, but because the bright light tapered outwards as it went up and the top was open, it shined a lot of light in the face, which wasn’t ideal.
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Prototype #3
I noticed that most of my models were very geometric, so I decided to explore the other direction. I decided to have fun with the swirl, but I didn’t take into account the lack of form tracing paper had. Though it diffused the light brightly, the swirl pushed against it, deforming the cylindrical shape. Also, with a round shape made it harder to give directionality to the light, so
Critique:
During the critique, we only had time to talk about the first prototype. Though interesting to look at, it was too busy, and it made one want to pay attention to the light more than the book they plan on reading in bed. Also, the light in a way struggled to get out, which probably wouldn’t give off enough light.
Takeaway:
- Keep it simple, not busy
- Keep in mind the brightness of light coming out
- Start thinking about direction of light
Prototype of Final Process
November 19, 2019
When thinking about the prototypes and sketch models I created, the one that stood out to me the most was Sketch Model #3. Though it was created early in the process, I really liked how the layers interacted with each other and how it looked like a fan. It was simple, unique, and not too distraction.
For the base, I decided to create something simple so that I could set the prototype on as I experimented. I decided to use foam core due to its sturdiness.
While choosing the paper, I decided to go with the Strathmore Drawing Paper, for I really liked the warm yellow glow it emitted, and I thought it would be the perfect paper for use next to a bed. I did worry that it would be too dark, but I had to try it.
I also ran into the issue of light seeping through the seams. I didn’t want that to happen, so I came up with the idea to create flaps that folded into each other on all four sides. In the end, I was left with an “X” shape on the top, which I found very interesting, and I really liked the clean look it had. The seams were nicely avoided.
Critique:
Steps to Take:
- Create a brighter light — it’s too dark
- Make the off state more interesting
- Create a more directional light
Additional:
I didn’t notice that the light resembled book pages, and I really liked that association.
Refinement
November 21, 2019
Trying Out New Techniques:
To deal with the issue of not enough light, I decided to try out the perforation tool, a suggestion by Stacie. I really liked the effect it created, but I wasn’t sure if it fit with the look of my light engine. It was definitely fit for a more whimsical work, not a straight-edged geometric one.
I also bought Mylar paper. I was inspired by the conference room light engines, for I really liked the frosted effect it gave off. Instead of Yupo (what they used) I went with Mylar because it’s thinner and warmer than Yupo, which fit my needs better.
I also played with a way to make the seams less noticeable, by creating two tabs and glueing them together. I found the technique very effective and smart.
I essentially followed similar steps as the first one, but switched out the last layer for Mylar. This helped make the off state more interesting and lighten up the darkest part of the light.
I also changed my paper to Strathmore sketch paper. This paper is 60lbs, which is thinner than the drawing paper. Though this glow is somewhat warm, it’s not as comforting, but it does make it easier to read.
Also, to add in the Mylar layer without visible seams, I used the technique from Sketch Model #4.
Critique:
When I talked to Zoe, she brought up how she really liked the side slit, since it was intriguing and it gave directionality to the light. I also brought up if the “X” on the top made the light look like a package, and we concluded that it fit the theme well and it was a good way to deal with the seams.
We also discussed the warmth of the light. We both liked the relaxing warm color of the previous iteration but the functionality of the newest iteration. She suggested to go paper shopping or try a warmer lightbulb.
She also noted how she saw Steve knock the light over, which probably isn’t the best situation. She suggested that a small lip or slit for the lamp would help and it would also make it seem as one instead of two separate pieces.
Final Light Engine
November 25, 2019
For the final project I decided to sketch out my ideas. The main things I decided to focus on were
- Make the off state look more interesting
- Create a base that goes with the light
Instead of using the Strathmore sketch paper as the main part of the I planned on using a slightly thicker Canson paper to improve on the form of the light. However, I found that the tones of the paper did not match well and it did not diffuse the light as well as I would have liked. I decided to stick with the Strathmore Sketch paper instead.
For the base, I wanted to create one that joined the paper and the base. I decided to go with the top right sketch for I liked the floating effect it had. The socket holds the two pieces together, preventing it from toppling over and giving it a more concrete form.
I again followed a similar procedure but along with a longer Mylar strip and a bottom for the light. There is a hole cut out for the socket to go through. Because the top of the light is sealed by flaps, the user can access the lightbulb through the top of the light by opening the flaps.
Final Photos
Reflection:
Seeing the end product, I know I could have done a cleaner job, especially on the craft. I have done better on the top of the light in my previous iterations, and in this case it was done poorly. This was due to my measurements being off by a little bit.
The base was also a lot taller than I had planned, for it had to have room to comfortably hide the socket. If I were to improve on this in the future, I would try to lower the apparent height of the base and make it squatter.
However, what I did like about the light was the simplicity and layering affect. I think the slit of Mylar was a good choice since it both gives direction to the light and acts as a decoration. The height of the base does give the light more room to fall onto the book, helping with the reading experience. Also, when the lights are turned off, it really does look like the light is floating, which is an interesting effect.
Further Iterations
December 2, 2019
The main issues I had with the final product were:
- The top of the lamp was poorly done, the flaps oddly leaked light, and overall it looked like it was unfinished.
- The base has exposed raw edges of foam core which needs to be addressed (It’s not professional).
- Try to take advantage of the geometric design onto the top of the light.
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Attempt #1
I decided to go with the third idea, to create corners at the bottom of the light to prevent the light from going further down and also keep it in place (a previous issue was that the light would easily fall off with a simple bump). I did this by doing what I usually did but with a border of Mylar at the bottom that had corners.
I also created a geometric design on the top according the the sketch seen above.
I believe this definitely added more to the light, and it’s more clean, However, in the process of creating it, I miscalculated, and one can see the tab peeking through the Mylar.
Also, the border of Mylar created at the bottom had bad craft, and the light sit unevenly on the base. Keeping this in mind, I decided to create another one.
Attempt #2
With the second attempt, I decided to create the corners with the inner Mylar lining. In the result, it created a thin line through the light, which is a little distracting
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The issue with the tab showing was mildly addressed with the technique of using two tabs and gluing them together inside the lamp. The faint shadow can still be seen though.
Reflection
Through the process of redoing the light, I learned that new issues always seem to show up once another is addressed. This really tested my patience. I learned that the process of learning and trying my best is more important than creating something perfect. I really enjoyed the process of thinking up of new solutions to the light. I believe the reading light I created isn’t the best in craft, but it is definitely interesting and it has taught me a lot about patience and how to deal with imperfections.
