Lumen iOS Application

Lumen iOS Application

Jiahui Jing

Thesis Faculty:

David Carroll, Barbara Morris

Lumen is a biofeedback-driven emotional wellness prototype designed for the Apple Watch, which visualizes Heart Rate Variability (HRV) through a candle-like digital companion. Rather than presenting physiological data as numerical metrics or charts, the project translates internal stress states into subtle changes in flame, light, and form. This approach aims to support emotional self-awareness through symbolic and embodied interaction.

Lumen explores how non-clinical design and gentle interaction can reshape the experience of biofeedback. Through simple actions such as reflection, touch, and breathing, users engage with Lumen in a more intuitive and embodied way. The character acts as a subtle anchor, supporting attention and presence without relying on explicit metrics. By shifting from performance-driven tracking to relational interaction, Lumen proposes an alternative model for emotional technology—one that prioritizes presence, care, and everyday self-awareness over measurement and optimization.

Lumen uses HRV data as its primary input. Data is collected through the Apple Watch. HRV is not displayed directly. It is processed in the background and updated every 60–90 seconds. This provides a stable but responsive signal. HRV varies between individuals. A fixed standard is not suitable for all users. Lumen applies a simple form of individual calibration. The system learns a baseline from the user over time. All readings are interpreted relative to this personal range. Changes are understood as shifts from the user’s own baseline, rather than absolute values. The calibration process is passive. It does not require manual setup. This keeps the experience seamless and non-intrusive. The goal is not precision, but perceptibility.

HRV values are translated into a small range of states and expressed through the metaphor of a candle. Rather than presenting the body through cold numerical data, the system transforms physiological changes into a continuously burning and shifting flame. When the user experiences higher stress or tension, relatively lower HRV causes Lumen’s flame to burn more intensely. The flame grows larger, flickers, and becomes unstable, as if energy is being consumed rapidly. At the same time, the candle body gradually melts and shrinks, reflecting a state of continuous exhaustion and burn. As the user becomes calmer and enters a state of recovery, relatively higher HRV allows the flame to slowly become smaller and steadier. The light softens and quiets, while the candle body gradually restores itself, as if regaining energy and stability. There are no rigid boundaries between these states. Lumen changes in a continuous and fluid way. The system avoids labeling states as “good” or “bad.” Instead, it uses the changing flame and wax body to make the body’s otherwise invisible rhythms feel perceivable and emotionally tangible.

Lumen Onboarding

Lumen Apple Watch UI

Character Motion Design

Lumen Introduction Video

This intro video presents the emotional world and interaction logic behind Lumen.
It was developed through a combination of self-written scripting, AI-generated visuals, interface design, and motion graphics.
The storyboard and narration were written independently to shape the overall emotional pacing and narrative structure of the piece. Visual imagery was generated with AI image tools, while animated sequences were produced using Kling to create atmospheric motion and cinematic transitions. These generated visuals were then combined with original user interface designs created in Figma and additional motion graphics developed in After Effects.
Rather than functioning as a traditional product advertisement, the video focuses on communicating the feeling of companionship and emotional awareness within Lumen. Through slow pacing, subtle interactions, and symbolic visuals, the piece explores how biometric data can be translated into a softer and more emotionally resonant experience.

Jiahui Jing

MFA design & technology
Jiahui Jing is a Chinese artist and designer exploring emotion, technology, and storytelling through interactive experiences. Her work combines biofeedback, poetic interfaces, and playful digital interactions to make invisible feelings visible and alive.