Jinji Lake Light Track

This project is located on the pathways along the Jinji Lake, a 5A-level scenic area in the core area of Suzhou, China.

Taking the opportunity of the Jinji lakeside environmental improvement movement which belongs to the government-led urban micro-renewal project (planning and constructing the Landscape Greening Enhancement Project, integrated lighting poles and intelligent track lighting system), this project focuses on upgrading the lighting facilities and control system of overwater trestle bridge and pathways to create a continuous 15-kilometer intelligent lakeside running route and a 3.5-kilometer interactive "light-chasing" running path over water and shoreline.

Users can access the system via a mobile app (WeChat Mini Program) for intelligent route planning, experiencing distinctive functions such as dynamic light interactions, scenic spot introductions, and AI-captured "highlight moments." Participants may also select preferred lighting colors to experience the chasing and accompanying effect of the lighting through the "light-chasing" running paths.

The project faced technical challenges of control system including GPS positioning inaccuracies, privacy concerns with camera recognition, real-time video capture and push, and integration the interactive lighting system into the urban night-view management platform.

Designers employed digital twin technology and Bluetooth beacon networks to achieve sub-2-meter precision positioning and multi-dimensional interactions. User identification is managed via linked accounts, while AI cameras utilize distributed algorithms to push highlight moments. The lighting control system adopts a dual-mode DMX512 and Bluetooth protocol, balancing aesthetic integration with the city’s nighttime scenery and interesting human-light interactions.

Energy-saving measures is prioritized through low-power Bluetooth components, standby power-saving modes, and on-demand dimming. The project seeks to combine innovative technology with urban nightscapes, creating a warm lakeside fitness environment that encourages outdoor activities and promotes healthy lifestyles. By blending cutting-edge interactivity with ecological mindfulness, it aspires to become a model for urban wellness and community engagement under the stars.