THE BIT LIGHT™

THE MAGNETIC MODULAR LIGHTING SYSTEM

The BIT Light™ is a magnetically coupled modular lighting system that allows the creation of  endlessly different three-dimensional shapes, each with differing light levels and light distribution patterns.  Unlike traditional fixtures, the BIT Light™ consists of a collection of self supporting illuminating modules (BITs) which can be simply added or removed to increase or decrease the fixture’s brightness, without requiring tools, technical skills or the help of specialists. 


BIT™ can be rearranged to create variable three-dimensional forms as a surface mounted, free standing or configured as a suspension.  The BIT Light™ can form expansive linear architectural elements, or can be combined to create reconfigurable lighting objects.


The BIT Light transforms the definition of a light fixture from a static object to a variable, tangible expression of light.  The act of forming illuminating objects alters the perception of what a fixture can be, and in doing so, alters our expectation of how we use light.

The BIT Light is now available in SHOP at Smithsonian Design Museum, Cooper Hewitt in New York.

COMPONENTS AND SAFETY

Each BIT contains a low voltage LED light source and a structural, protective, translucent polycarbonate shell. Multiple BITs are fastened with a magnetic connector that physically secures and electrically connects the BITs together and to a power source.

The only exposed conductors on the BITs are the unused connecting areas, which are recessed and can be covered with small insulating covers. On the intermediate connectors, the exterior is grounded and unused connectors can be protected with magnetically fastened insulating covers.

SIMPLE CONNECTION

The power comes from either a ceiling/wall mounted or a free standing terminal connector that supplies low voltage power or an internal battery.  The terminal power connector is identical to the intermediate connector and energizes the connected BIT.  The open end of the energized BIT becomes the power source for the next connected device. As BITs are joined by the magnetic connectors, they are connected electrically and structurally. The integrated modular design eliminates wires and is easy for anyone to adjust.  The low power LED is safe and cool to touch, while the polycarbonate shell is impact resistant, and recyclable.

ILLUMINATION LEVELS

Each BIT generates 270 lumens of omni-directional lighting and can be dimmed with a conventional dimmer switch.


Each additional BIT incrementally increases the illumination level.


Because the BIT is an integrated bulb without external wires, it is easy for anyone to manipulate.  The low power LED is safe and cool to touch, while the polycarbonate shell is impact resistant, and recyclable.

BRIGHTER AND BRIGHTER

A large number of BITs assembled as an artistic installation utilizing multiple power connections on different surfaces. Each additional BIT increases the level of illumination and the possible number of variations in form.

MANY VARIATIONS, ONE FIXTURE

VARIABLE FORM

2 BITS + 1 connector   = 

3 BITS + 2 connectors = 

4 BITS + 3 connectors = 

5 BITS + 4 connectors =

6 BITS + 5 connectors =

7 BITS + 6 connectors =

25 

125 

625  

3,125 

15,625

possible variations

possible variations

possible variations

possible variations

possible variations

possible variations

The BIT Light can be rearranged to create variable three-dimensional forms as a surface mount fixture (walls, ceilings, floors, or task surfaces) or configured as a suspension. The BIT Light can form expansive linear architectural elements, or can be combined to create reconfigurable lighting objects.

This first release of the BIT Light consists of linear BITs with magnetic orthogonal connectors. A few of the possible arrangements with five BITs are shown above.

Artist Sol LeWitt’s study (above) is expressed as Variations of the BIT 5 (right).

MATERIAL, SHAPE & COLOR

Currently, BITs in a great variety of forms, colors, materials, as well as connectors that allow for different connecting angles and positions are being developed.

BIT Light is a trademark of Choi+Shine Architects, LLC. 

BIT Light is a patented technology.  US Patent No. 10,274,180


Choi+Shine is a multi-disciplinary architecture and design firm with offices in London, Seoul and Boston, best known for their Land of Giants high voltage transmission towers. For questions regarding the design please contact Sarah Kim at Choi+Shine. For the information regarding intellectual property rights please contact  Sunstein, Kann Murphy & Timbers, LLP.

The name BIT  comes from three sources.  Primarily, the Korean word for light, which in English is pronounced something like "bit". This system is also an assembly of parts, or bits.  And finally, it is an acronym for Bulb with Integrated Technology.

AWARDS

Longlist

2019  Dezeen Awards

Finalist

2015  AZ Awards

2nd Place

2015  LAMP Awards

Finalist

2015  WIN Awards

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The images and design  copyright 2014-2023  Choi+Shine Architects, LLC.  All rights reserved. 

 The BIT Light is protected by international patents.  “The BIT Light” is trademark of Choi+Shine Architects.

Contact:  Choi+Shine Architects for written permission for image use.