Patent Trend Analysis of Human Centric Lighting: Focusing on Melatonin Regulating Light Sources and Lighting Devices

Minju Kim; Chan-Jeong Park

doi:10.21086/ksles.2025.12.32.6.822

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2025 Vol.32, Issue 6 Preview Page Next Page

Research Article

Patent Trend Analysis of Human Centric Lighting: Focusing on Melatonin Regulating Light Sources and Lighting Devices 인간중심조명 특허동향 분석: 멜라토닌 조절 광원 및 조명장치를 중심으로

31 December 2025. pp. 822-830

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Abstract

This study analyzes patent trends in melatonin regulation technologies within the broader development of human centric lighting. A total of 283 patents were identified and categorized into light source technologies and lighting device technologies, and further grouped into four functional areas: melatonin suppression, reduction, promotion, and control. Patent activity has increased steadily since the mid 2010s, peaking between 2019 and 2021. China, the United States, and Japan accounted for more than 80 percent of all filings. China showed rapid growth in light source and control technologies, while the United States and Japan focused on application oriented lighting device innovations. Recent developments show a transition from basic melatonin suppression toward more precise and dynamic regulation of human circadian rhythms. Major companies such as Panasonic, Nichia, and Philips have advanced wavelength conversion materials, multi phosphor spectral designs, and adaptive radiation control to improve melatonin regulation. Application fields include driving safety, productivity enhancement, sleep and healthcare support, and personalized circadian lighting. Overall, melatonin regulation is emerging as a core component of human centric lighting, indicating the need for future personalized lighting systems using real time biological signals from sensors and wearable devices.

Keywords

Human centric lighting

Melatonin regulation

Light source

Lighting device

Patent analysis

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Information

Publisher :The Korean Society of Living Environmental System
Publisher(Ko) :한국생활환경학회
Journal Title :Journal of The Korean Society of Living Environmental System
Journal Title(Ko) :한국생활환경학회
Volume : 32
No :6
Pages :822-830
Received Date : 2025-11-18
Revised Date : 2025-12-06
Accepted Date : 2025-12-17
DOI :https://doi.org/10.21086/ksles.2025.12.32.6.822

Journal of The Korean Society of Living Environmental System ISSN:1226-1289(Print) 한국생활환경학회

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