Spirit of Earth: A Luminary Dance of Grassland Lights

Outdoor Lighting Innovation by Jingyi Miao and Zou Hu

When the sun sets, the magic begins in the grasslands with the Spirit of Earth outdoor lighting. Designers Jingyi Miao and Zou Hu have harnessed the enchanting effect of lasers sweeping through grass, reminiscent of fireflies, to create a lighting product that not only illuminates but also captivates. This design is not just about aesthetics; it's a strategic move to bolster tourism and economic development in rural areas.

What sets the Spirit of Earth apart is its commitment to sustainability and visual richness. The design uses a minimal amount of energy to produce a maximal lighting effect. A linear laser creates an array of scattered green light spots across the grass, giving the impression of a living, breathing earth. The dynamic fluctuation of light mimics the graceful dance of the grass, inviting onlookers into a mesmerizing experience.

The technology behind this spectacle is as innovative as the visual effect it creates. A glass bottle houses an LED screen and a laser irradiation device, which work in tandem to simulate sprites and cast laser light across the grass. Mounted on a dual track servo structure, the laser can swing in multiple directions, creating the illusion of light spots gracefully soaring over the grassland.

Attention to detail is evident in the design's specifications. After rigorous testing, the dimensions of 180 mm x 130 mm x 230 mm were chosen to ensure the product's presence is felt outdoors, harmonizing with the green light spots to present a unified visual effect. This careful consideration ensures that the Spirit of Earth is not just a light source but an integral part of the landscape.

The design's interaction is as simple as it is magical. To activate the Spirit of Earth, one simply opens the bottle's lid, and the green light begins to glow, signaling the awakening of the spirits within. As the laser sweeps across the grass, the light spots emerge, creating a dynamic and enchanting display. Certified as safe by the International Electrotechnical Commission, the Class 1 laser ensures no harm to eyes, bodies, or the ecosystem.

From its inception in July 2022 to its completion in April 2023 in Guangzhou, China, the Spirit of Earth has been a journey of innovation and impact. Exhibited at the Art Museum of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, this design has already proven its worth by enhancing the economy of "Nanting Village" in Guangzhou by 20% through its captivating light shows.

Overcoming technical challenges, the design team perfected the dynamic effects of the lasers and the LED screen to achieve a harmonious visual narrative. The Spirit of Earth is a testament to the power of design to transform spaces and lives, earning it the Bronze in A' Lighting Products and Fixtures Design Award in 2024. Jingyi Miao's and Zou Hu's creation is a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and beauty, illuminating the path for future outdoor lighting designs.