Lellan wanted to create an easily controllable, modular lighting system that would provide a striking ambiance for residential and commercial environments. Lellan worked with Covestro to create the DigitalCanvas™. The DigitalCanvas uses LEDs to broadcast dynamic color, light, motion and interactivity. SmartTiles make up the DigitalCanvas™ system. These SmartTiles can be combined and configured to form any size DigitalCanvas™ ranging from one to 1,000 SmartTiles.
SmartTiles of Lellan’s DigitalCanvas
The SmartTiles can be arranged with any spacing or orientation to broadcast videos with cohesive effect. According to Lellan, any wireless device or PC can control the easily installable DigitalCanvas™. Furthermore, the system does not need a complicated control system or excessive cabling.
Lellan DigitalCanvas
Covestro produces the translucent Makrolon® Lumen XT polycarbonate sheet which forms the surface of the SmartTile. The sheet acts as a diffuser for the LEDs that illuminate the surface. In addition to the high percentage of light diffusion, the Makrolon® Lumen XT polycarbonate sheet offers uniform light transmission. The system required a lightweight material, like Makrolon® Lumen XT polycarbonate sheet, with LED diffusing capability to minimize hot spotting from pinpoint light.
“We collaborated with Lellan, providing technical assistance and guidance on material selection,” said Ken Licklider, sign and lighting segment manager, Polycarbonate Sheet, Covestro LLC. “This helped Lellan discover the unique light diffusing capabilities of Makrolon® Lumen XT that enables the SmartTile to produce the desired creative effects.”
Each SmartTile measures about 11.8” x 11.8” x 1.7”. The small size reportedly allows easy installation without needing to remodel or reinforce walls.
According to Michelle Johnston, vice president of sales and marketing, Lellan, “Covestro’s material was selected due to its superior light diffusion properties and natural color. We tested many other products, including acrylic and polypropylene, but nothing compared to Makrolon® Lumen XT polycarbonate sheet. It emerged as the clear winner.”
Covestro asserts that its Makrolon® Lumen XT polycarbonate sheet also offers superior durability and protection, which is especially important when used in retail spaces, corporate lobbies, hotels, bars, restaurants, and other interior spaces frequented by people.
The Lellan’s DigitalCanvas™ is currently available in the U.S. and will soon be available worldwide.
