F/List, an Austria-based manufacturer of luxury aircraft interior equipment, has developed a new concept named Lightshifter. The concept builds on the company’s Shapeshifter technology, which transforms solid-state monuments for multiple applications, Lightshifter morphs wood veneer surfaces to reveal integrated illuminated elements, creating a feel of unexpected textures, effects and atmospheres in the cabin.
F/List describes Lightshifter as “a completely new material concept”. It enables naturally oiled wood veneer to expose light sources on demand. When activated, the solid wood veneer on a cabin surface transforms into a canvas for the lighting effect, to add depth and dimension to a previously flat surface.
When the illumination is deactivated, the Lightshifter material returns to its original wood veneer structure, with no visible change.
“Imagine the bulkhead of a business jet or first-class cabin seamlessly transitioning from a flat wood appearance to a textured pattern, with inspiring illumination,” explained Michael Mueller, managing director of F/List Aviation. “It provides a true differentiator for airlines and brings a new design dimension to business jet interiors.”
The lighting function can be controlled through the CMS and operated by flight attendants in airline cabins, or flight crew and passengers on business jets.
F/List says the concept was created in response to customer requests for products that instantly transform flat surfaces in the cabin into dramatic backgrounds with only minimal human interaction required.
“Our customers are always seeking new ways to enhance the cabin interior environment without adding bulky objects, technology hardware or heavy components,” added Mueller. “The Lightshifter changes the cabin atmosphere without any visible presence, yet the customisable sequences featuring colours, light intensity and more effects can augment the whole cabin ambience and travel experience.”
The concept required a completely new material combination to be developed that allows wood to transition from its natural state to another, while retaining its durable qualities. The hidden lighting incorporated into this adaptive material can serve as a light source for passengers or provide a dramatic backdrop or creative decor.
You can see a video of the concept in action HERE.
The Lightshifter was developed in the company’s internal R&D centre, the F/Lab. “Lightshifter supports the full spectrum of lighting requirements, from providing cabin lighting without imposing fixtures, to creating vivid light installations that complement branding, destinations or customer preferences. We’re excited to see how customers apply the technology,” said Patrick Domnanich, director of research and development at F/List.
