Moments of Light
LichtMomente is an interactive lighting system designed to foster social connections among trade fair visitors.
A semester project by Theresa Hußke and Daria Savchenko
6th semester, 2025
Supervising lecturers: Prof. Tsunemitsu Tanaka, Romina Marsico, Max Studanski
The user
The project is aimed at visitors to public-facing art fairs such as the Discovery Art Fair. This fair is characterised by an open, relaxed atmosphere in which social interaction takes centre stage.
Many visitors go there seeking, amongst other things, informal conversation, inspiration and new contacts. At the same time, social barriers such as a fear of speaking to strangers or a lack of opportunities to strike up a conversation can hinder spontaneous interaction. This is precisely where the system comes in: it fosters social connections in a subtle and visual way, without any technical hurdles or the need for active user input.
The system
The system consists of three parts – Nudging, Connection and Materialisation – which support social interactions from the initial connection suggestion through to the digital follow-up.
Nudging
Visitors can specify their interests as early as the registration stage. On entry, they are given a UWB badge that tracks their position and movement patterns at the exhibition. When two visitors with matching interests are in close proximity to one another, pulsating circles of light appear around them, suggesting a personalised connection.
Connection
When the two visitors accept the connection suggestion and begin a conversation, a shared circle of light forms around them. This creates a sense of privacy. The intensity and movement of the light adapt to the duration and emotional depth of the conversation.
Even spontaneous conversations – regardless of the system’s suggestion – are acknowledged by the circle of light and visualised in the same way.
Materialisation
After the conversation, the circle of light transforms into a spark of light that travels to an LED column. There, it rises and becomes visible as a shining star in the projected exhibition sky.
This creates a collective visualisation of all the connections made during the trade fair. At the same time, the encounter is saved in the individual’s online profile, enabling targeted follow-up after the trade fair.
Technology
Sensor Technology
UWB badges and anchors track visitors’ positions with high precision. 3D cameras detect posture, line of sight and emotions – forming the basis for connection suggestions and emotional lighting design.
Data Processing & System Logic
A Raspberry Pi processes the data locally. Python-based logic controls the visualisations in real time. An AI analyses body language to assess the atmosphere of the conversation.
Output / Actuators
Projectors display light pulses (nudging), conversation circles and a starry sky. LED columns visualise the transition from conversation to a lasting connection.
User Interface
On the trade fair website, every visitor is given a personal profile with saved contacts for follow-ups after the trade fair.
