Soon, hotel signs may glow underfoot

AMSTERDAM (AP) ― Ever wish your hotel room could be marked “Do Not Disturb” in glowing lights, to drive the message home? That option is on its way. Two European companies have developed a system in which colored LEDs are combined with specialized carpets to make tailored hotel signs that appear underfoot instead of on walls.

Obvious uses include having glowing red arrows direct guests to the nearest escape or exit in case of emergency. Or displaying guests’ names outside their doors. Ed Huibers, sales director at Royal Philips NV, the world’s biggest lighting maker, says hotel tests are underway. Europe’s biggest carpet maker, Desso, said Monday a broader market rollout will begin next year, with airports also potential customers.