Lexilight: A Reading Lamp Designed to Help Dyslexic Individuals

Combining Form and Function to Aid Reading

The Lexilight reading lamp stands as a benevolent companion on the desk, resembling a caring friend bending over the book to assist in reading. The lamp's design features edges and lines on the foot that have no clear start or end point, symbolizing the never-ending nature of reading.

What sets Lexilight apart is its unique combination of pulsed and modulated light. This innovative approach helps to eliminate the mirror image effect that dyslexic individuals often experience while reading. By reducing this visual distortion, Lexilight enables dyslexic readers to engage in easier, faster, and longer reading sessions without experiencing eye strain.

The strength of Lexilight lies in its ability to create an acceptance effect. Dyslexia is often a hidden handicap, and the lamp's designers aimed to make it a desirable object for children, teenagers, and adults alike. Children see it as a friendly figure, teenagers appreciate its stylish design, and adults view it as a beautiful piece of art and product design.

The Lexilight reading lamp is made using high-quality materials. The head is crafted from ABS with a metal painting finish, while the light diffuser is injected with PMMA. The foot is made of ZAMAC and undergoes a post-process anodization. Notably, the entire lamp is assembled in France by a factory where 100% of the workers are individuals with disabilities.

With dimensions of 270 mm in width, 185 mm in depth, and 300 mm in height, Lexilight is a compact and versatile reading companion suitable for use at home, school, or the office.

Operating the Lexilight reading lamp is simple. Users can choose between two modes, Lexilight mode or normal light, by pressing the main button. Two potentiometers allow for customization of the light wave, enabling users to adjust the pulsation and modulation to suit their individual needs.

The Lexilight project began in Paris, France, in November 2018 and was completed in Saint Malo, France, in October 2019. Extensive research and testing were conducted throughout the design process. The designers focused on understanding when and where children enjoy reading and incorporated their feedback into the final product. The lamp underwent testing by 120 children across France for two months, with their input and that of their parents shaping the lamp's ergonomic features, style, and colors.

Recognizing its innovative design and impact on the lives of dyslexic individuals, Lexilight was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures Design category in 2021. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.