TU/e is the co-ordinator of the research-based project, De-escalate that develops and tests mechanisms for de-escalation of aggression through dynamic light. The project studies the potential impact of light on de-escalation, by examining psychological pathways through which exposure to dynamic light might defuse escalation. It translates these findings into dynamic lighting scenarios, and tests their effectiveness in two real-life situations: an inner-city entertainment area and a psychiatric care facility.
The project will develop and test mechanisms for de‐escalation through light: lowering arousal levels, inducing positively valenced mood, shifting and broadening attention, facilitating social behaviour, increasing self‐awareness, and enhancing self‐control.
Theory‐informed ‘Light principles’ will first be tested in controlled laboratory settings of the TU/e Intelligent Lighting Institute (ILI) established in 2010 to investigate novel intelligent lighting solutions that might affect people. It does it in collaboration with the public and private sectors. The lighting research performed at ILI is producing unique know-how and a technological head start for the participating parties, the Brainport Region, and as part of Europe.
In addition TU/e and TU/e Intelligent Lighting Institute (ILI) other key stakeholders of the De-scalete project are: the Municipality of Eindhoven for which safety and security in entertainment areas are very important issues. Eindhoven has designated Stratumseind as LivingLab, and fitted it with numerous non-privacy invading sensors to inspire and facilitate social innovation, and to monitor the effect of innovative interventions. Another partner is GGzE Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg Eindhoven en De Kempen (GGzE) that offers counselling, treatment and support to people with different mental health problems or psychiatric disorders such as depression, addiction, and schizophrenia. Its central aim is to maximise every individual's active participation in society. Scientific research is one of the foundations of GGzE's activities. Its goal is to generate new insights that can directly be employed in the care and treatment we provide. GGzE collaborates closely with universities and centres of expertise in applied and fundamental research. The Dutch Institute for Technology Safety & Security (DITSS), as project partner focuses on technological and social innovation in the fields of Security & Safety in a social context. These innovations originate from the top technology of the knowledge institutes and companies in South East Brabant and from social innovation, the main strength of Central Brabant.
De-escalate is co-funded by Netherlands Organisationm for Scientific Rsearch (NWO) under the Top sector programme Creative Industries, and part of the CLICKNL network. NWO supports a strong system of sciences in the Netherlands by encouraging quality and innovation in science. On the other hand, CLICKNL is the creative industries knowledge and innovation network, connecting inquisitive researchers to enterprising creative people. Together they work on sustainable solutions to societal and economic challenges. The creative industries is growing faster than the rest of the economy and is giving a significant boost to employment and the growth of the number of businesses in the Netherlands. What’s more, the sector drives innovation in other sectors and generates creative solutions to societal challenges. - HEI: 25% - Industry: 25% - Government: 25% - Society: 25%
For TUE this project exemplifies the value creation through evidence‐based lighting design. It’s strength lies in the combination of theory‐based and controlled research with the integration and evaluation of dynamic light scenarios in experiential design landscapes, providing excellent opportunities for valorisation in contexts of public health and safety. The lighting research performed at TUE Institute of Intelligent Lighting Institute is producing unique know-how and a technological head start for the participating parties, the Brainport Region, and as part of Europe.
The Project is implemented by the Eindhoven University of Technology TU/e as Co-ordinator, Intelligent Lighting Institute established in 2010 at TU/e, Municipality of Eindhoven, GGzE Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg Eindhoven en De Kempen (GGzE), Dutch Institute for Technology, Safety & Security (fieldlabs).The engagement of TU/e was crucial for the prioritisation of the research process.