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Illuminating Spaces Lighting experts speak to Middle East Consultant about the evolution of lighting design and where lighting technology is heading ike most devices around us, the once simple light bulb has evolved into a more complex gadget. From being used to illuminate a room, lighting technology has become more multifunctional, and is now capable of speeding up the healing process, influencing our behaviour and even promoting connectivity to the internet, among other abilities. But what exactly has led to lighting technology improving at such a rapid pace? Experts across the board believe that advancements in LED technology over the last couple of years are among the main reasons for this growth. Mark Vowles, director at Nulty, points out that the industry is now dealing with electronic systems rather than the traditional filament lighting, which opens up endless possibilities to develop smart systems. In fact, with the micronisation of electronics and LEDs, a number of elements can be encapsulated in LED products. “You can have cameras, heat sensors, earthquake sensors, smoke detectors and speakers – the list is really endless, but it comes with a price tag. In principle, the clients in the Middle East like the concept of a smart system, but most of the time the initial capital expenditure outweighs the long-term repayments of the system, so it gets value engineered out. “In fact, a company called Enlighted Inc has made some really interesting developments in smart systems. One such development is incorporating sensors within lighting that track the movement of individuals around a retail space, which gives critical feedback to retailers on how people move about the store, points of sale (POS) that are doing well and how long people spend shopping.” Giving another practical example, Veit Müller, senior vice president MEIA at the Zumtobel Group, says today’s technology can ensure more user-focused and user-friendly operation of luminaires. For example, at Zumtobel’s office, every desk cluster is able to control its lighting individually. Employees can dim their cluster’s lights up or down by simply using their smartphones or computer desktops, and in some clusters they can even choose the colour temperature they prefer. 14 SEPTEMBER 2016
“The current setting in a cluster imitates the natural rhythm of daylight. The day starts with a very warm 2,700 Kelvin in the early morning, simulating the sunrise. From 7AM towards lunchtime, the colour temperature gradually adjusts to 4,000-5,000 Kelvin, synchronising people’s circadian rhythm and suppressing the melatonin release. And towards the end of the day, the lighting turns warmer again, allowing the release of melatonin and preparing the body for the rest phase. “This is possible through intelligent lighting controls and sensors, which are furthermore crucial to maximise energy savings. Looking at the specs and designs of future projects, the Middle East is making progress on including intelligent sensors and controls, and we can finally see a larger shift towards using LED technology.” Sergio Padula, technical director at iGuzzini, adds that it’s not just lighting that’s been getting more efficient but its fittings as well. In fact, fittings are now able to adapt to the harshest temperatures and conditions, as LED is a controllable and manageable component. It allows the fitting to adapt to the surrounding environment and guarantees high performance. “Lighting fittings react very well to different conditions and can tolerate adjustments in intensity, dimming without compromising the light quality. LEDs emit coloured light depending on the doping applied to its chip, without using external filters required by traditional sources. This improves the system’s efficiency, and the absence of ultraviolet and infrared light makes LEDs ideal for food and exhibition applications, where these radiations could be damaging. “Now this new technology is extremely popular in the region. It’s interesting to note that in 2015, 70% of our company’s turnover was from LED fittings, but when our Middle East branch launched in 2008, LED represented only 20% of the overall turnover!”