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ARCHITECTURAL

LIGHTING REVIEWER
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
❑ There are three methods of illumination – general, local and supplementary and combined
WHAT IS LIGHTING DESIGN? general and local illumination. Take note: These are not the ambient, task and accent lighting which is
ELEMENTS OF LIGHTING DESIGN based on its function. This is the type of illumination based on light distribution like uniformity and
• Lighting design is always in collaboration with other designers – interior designers, architects, intensity.
electrical engineers, etc. There are several aspects or elements of lighting design that we can
consider: ❑ General Lighting – uniform and generally diffused lighting
• Intensity or Brightness of Light – determined and calculated by the designer and must conform ❑ Local and Supplementary Lighting – small, high-level area of lighting without contributing to the
the to needs of the space and the users. general lighting and supplements the general lighting
• Higher illumination suggest high levels of activity and lower product costs (offices, fast food
and discount retailers). ❑ Combined General and Local
• Lower illumination may suggest reduced levels of activity, higher levels of service,
exclusivity and higher product costs (private offices, expensive restaurants and exclusive
stores).
TYPES OF LIGHT DISTRIBUTION
• Brightness can all draw attentions as when used in theater lighting. It can always affect or ❑ Indirect Lighting - the ceiling and upper walls become the primary light source which creates
influence the movement or attention of users. shadowless environments. The resultant illumination is generally uniform and direct and reflected
• Color of Light – include coolness or warmth of light which can provoke emotions or different
perception necessary for a particular space. glare are low. Ceiling with high luminance can make the effect of high ceiling, which is good for
• Distribution of Light – the way light fill a space. large room with low ceiling. Local and supplementary lighting might still be needed because
• Movement of Light – least obvious element of lighting design which refers to the change in either reflected light is usually not enough for some visual tasks.
one of the three elements of lighting (intensity, color and distribution).
❑ Semi-indirect Lighting – less attention on the lighting fixture. Lighter colored walls and ceilings
START OF ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING DESIGN can give greater illumination.
• Richard Kelly – one of the pioneers of and considered the father of the architectural lighting design.
He first opened his firm in 1935 where he worked on architectural lighting and theatrical lighting. He
❑ General Diffuse and Direct-Indirect Lighting – generally equal amount of upward and
worked with different famous architects. downward lights. Take note that general diffuse is more global in shape while direct-indirect
• Richard Kelly identified the three (3) forms of lightplay which is used in architectural lighting design have little horizontal component. Due to their different light distribution, general diffuse tend
today:
• focal glow – creating focus and interest to give lighter illumination while walls may be less illuminated in direct-indirect lighting. The space
• ambient luminensence – minimizing the importance of certain elements, general lighting, will not appear dull and monotonous and with uniform illumination in both types of lighting.
achieved by light colored walls, curtains and ceilings ❑ Semi-direct Lighting – if the ceiling is high reflectance, direct glare can be minimized. Shadowing
• play of brilliants – stimulating the optic nerves and curiosity. It can be entertaining.
• The ideas of Richard Kelly are similar to the idea of three basic types of lighting based on is not a problem if the upward component is at least 25% and ceiling reflectance is at least 70%.
function: general lighting (ambient), task lighting and accent lighting. Take note: Some other Lighting is usually pleasant.
soures also mentioned informational and decorative lighting.
• General Lighting – blankets a space and provide the base or minimum level of illumination
❑ Direct Lighting – this type of lighting does not illuminate the ceiling (probably because of
• Task Lighting – provides additional light in areas where visual tasks are required (i.e. exposed ducts etc.). Direct lighting can be spread (surface-mounted or troffer fluorescent
reading, cooking, eating). fixtures) or concentrated (downlights used alone where privacy type of atmosphere is needed).
• Accent Lighting – provides visual interest by highlighting architectural element or calling
attention to important items like products or artwork. This type of lighting is related to Spre
decorative and informational lighting. ❑ Spread Direct Lighting – light tends to be reflected by the floor which then illuminates the
• A lighting source can be point source (a small concentrated light source that creates hard shadows), ceiling. This is represented by surface-mounted or troffer fluorescent fixtures and usually
line source (linear lights like fluorescent tubes) or plane source (relatively larger and produces
softers shadows). used for general lighting in offices.
• Layering of light – using multiple overlapping lighting techniques (mixing ambient, task and accent ❑ Concentrated Direct Lighting – light tends to be used where privacy type of atmosphere
lighting). It can also include other types of light light informational and decorative lighting.
is needed. Examples are incandescent downlights. These usually used for highlighting,
local and supplementary lighting and specialized viewing.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
❑ There are three methods of illumination – general, local and supplementary and combined
WHAT IS LIGHTING DESIGN? general and local illumination. Take note: These are not the ambient, task and accent lighting which is
ELEMENTS OF LIGHTING DESIGN based on its function. This is the type of illumination based on light distribution like uniformity and
• Lighting design is always in collaboration with other designers – interior designers, architects, intensity.
electrical engineers, etc. There are several aspects or elements of lighting design that we can
consider: ❑ General Lighting – uniform and generally diffused lighting
• Intensity or Brightness of Light – determined and calculated by the designer and must conform ❑ Local and Supplementary Lighting – small, high-level area of lighting without contributing to the
the to needs of the space and the users. general lighting and supplements the general lighting
• Higher illumination suggest high levels of activity and lower product costs (offices, fast food
and discount retailers). ❑ Combined General and Local
• Lower illumination may suggest reduced levels of activity, higher levels of service,
exclusivity and higher product costs (private offices, expensive restaurants and exclusive
stores).
TYPES OF LIGHT DISTRIBUTION
• Brightness can all draw attentions as when used in theater lighting. It can always affect or ❑ Indirect Lighting - the ceiling and upper walls become the primary light source which creates
influence the movement or attention of users. shadowless environments. The resultant illumination is generally uniform and direct and reflected
• Color of Light – include coolness or warmth of light which can provoke emotions or different
perception necessary for a particular space. glare are low. Ceiling with high luminance can make the effect of high ceiling, which is good for
• Distribution of Light – the way light fill a space. large room with low ceiling. Local and supplementary lighting might still be needed because
• Movement of Light – least obvious element of lighting design which refers to the change in either reflected light is usually not enough for some visual tasks.
one of the three elements of lighting (intensity, color and distribution).
❑ Semi-indirect Lighting – less attention on the lighting fixture. Lighter colored walls and ceilings
START OF ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING DESIGN can give greater illumination.
• Richard Kelly – one of the pioneers of and considered the father of the architectural lighting design.
He first opened his firm in 1935 where he worked on architectural lighting and theatrical lighting. He
❑ General Diffuse and Direct-Indirect Lighting – generally equal amount of upward and
worked with different famous architects. downward lights. Take note that general diffuse is more global in shape while direct-indirect
• Richard Kelly identified the three (3) forms of lightplay which is used in architectural lighting design have little horizontal component. Due to their different light distribution, general diffuse tend
today:
• focal glow – creating focus and interest to give lighter illumination while walls may be less illuminated in direct-indirect lighting. The space
• ambient luminensence – minimizing the importance of certain elements, general lighting, will not appear dull and monotonous and with uniform illumination in both types of lighting.
achieved by light colored walls, curtains and ceilings ❑ Semi-direct Lighting – if the ceiling is high reflectance, direct glare can be minimized. Shadowing
• play of brilliants – stimulating the optic nerves and curiosity. It can be entertaining.
• The ideas of Richard Kelly are similar to the idea of three basic types of lighting based on is not a problem if the upward component is at least 25% and ceiling reflectance is at least 70%.
function: general lighting (ambient), task lighting and accent lighting. Take note: Some other Lighting is usually pleasant.
soures also mentioned informational and decorative lighting.
• General Lighting – blankets a space and provide the base or minimum level of illumination
❑ Direct Lighting – this type of lighting does not illuminate the ceiling (probably because of
• Task Lighting – provides additional light in areas where visual tasks are required (i.e. exposed ducts etc.). Direct lighting can be spread (surface-mounted or troffer fluorescent
reading, cooking, eating). fixtures) or concentrated (downlights used alone where privacy type of atmosphere is needed).
• Accent Lighting – provides visual interest by highlighting architectural element or calling
attention to important items like products or artwork. This type of lighting is related to Spre
decorative and informational lighting. ❑ Spread Direct Lighting – light tends to be reflected by the floor which then illuminates the
• A lighting source can be point source (a small concentrated light source that creates hard shadows), ceiling. This is represented by surface-mounted or troffer fluorescent fixtures and usually
line source (linear lights like fluorescent tubes) or plane source (relatively larger and produces
softers shadows). used for general lighting in offices.
• Layering of light – using multiple overlapping lighting techniques (mixing ambient, task and accent ❑ Concentrated Direct Lighting – light tends to be used where privacy type of atmosphere
lighting). It can also include other types of light light informational and decorative lighting.
is needed. Examples are incandescent downlights. These usually used for highlighting,
local and supplementary lighting and specialized viewing.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
❑ Direct-Lighting Luminaire Characteristics
❑ Reflectors control or affect lighting distributions differently.
❑ Parabolic Reflectors
❑ Lens -
❑ Shielding Baffles
❑ Pin-hole downlight
❑ Prismatic and Parabolic Lighting – although there is no definite source, prismatic and parabolic lighting refers to the two types of
light distribution from a fixture. They might refer to the type of lens used, the type of enclosure or the shape of the lamp. But
remember, the main difference between the two is how the light is distributed (as seen from their candela distribution curves).
❑ Prismatic Distribution – the light distribution pattern is spread uniformly over a large surface area. This allows higher spacing
to mounting height ratio (it can be spaced farther). Prismatic distribution is usually achieved using lenses.
❑ Parabolic Distribution – provides uneven illumination and required closer spacing for uniform illumination. This distribution
is usually achieved by parabolic louvers (eggcrate-like).
❑ Take note: prismatic and parabolic lighting usually refers the type of office troffer lighting.
❑ Uniformity of Horizontal Illumination (working plane, ceiling or floor planes) – 1:2 to 1:3 ratio of minimum to maximum
illumination in the working plane is acceptable and tolerable. For non-task illumination, 1:5 is acceptable. The ratio means that the
illumination varies up to 5x the minimum illumination.
❑ Uniformity of Vertical Illumination (wall planes) – in some cases, uniform wall illumination is desired which cannot be achieved in
some types of luminaires. This uniformity can be achieved using:
❑ Point sources such as incandescent downlights
❑ Line sources such as continuous row of fluorescent lights
❑ Infinite sources such as luminous ceilings where transilluminated or indirect
❑ Parabolic reflector beams such as from PAR lamps
❑ Mounting Height of Luminaires shall be carefully established because a balance between low-ceiling brightness (to avoid glare),
good utilization of light, and the apparent ceiling height if low mounting height is used.
❑ Lighting fixtures shall chosen carefully considering the cost, quality, maintenance, ease of installation and indefinite life. Some
considerations in construction include:
❑ Metal parts shall be coated. Maximum of 90C outside the surface of lighting fixture. Glass and plastic diffusers shall be
properly mounted and with slow-burning or self-extinguishing type so it is safe during fire. Fixtures for outdoor use shall be
suitable for outdoor use.
❑ Lighting Fixture Installation
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DESIGN ❑ Provide the recommended illumination level and brightness ratio depending on the
visual task. Take note that the task brightness shall be higher than surrounding
brightness (3-5x brighter). Also remember that 300-500lux illumination for reading to
CONSIDERATIONS working.
❑ Generally stair lighting shall be brighter than corridor lighting. Placement of light shall be
❑ Fluorescent troffers are standard-sized fixtures recessed into a suspended- above or ahead in stairs to create the shadows directly below the tread front. Shadows
ceiling system. There are different types of fluorescent troffers based on its on the stairs lessen tripping hazard.
connection with the ceiling system: ❑ Take note that table lamps are not for general lighting. Ceiling lights provide the
❑ Concealed T-bar and snap-in appropriate general lighting.
❑ Inverted Tee – designed to rest on or lay-in the inverted-T of a ❑ Use diffuse distribution for general lighting, narrow downlights for area and furniture
suspension system accents and wall washers for accenting walls.
❑ Horizontal flange ❑ Use built-in lighting to the extent possible, including architectural elements. Don’t use too
❑ Brackets, Hooks and other attachments much lights that are not built-in as general lighting like table lamps, portable lamps,
❑ Type S luminaire (splines) pendant lighting and track-lighting.
❑ Luminaire diffusing elements differ in terms of photometric characteristics, ❑ Some architectural lighting elements can be used like lighted cornices, valances, coves,
cost and ease of maintenance, appearance and fire safety. These elements high and low wall brackets, light soffits, lighted canopies, luminous ceilings and luminous
include: wall panels. Note: For cove lighting, take note that there is a minimum distance from the
❑ Plain white diffusers – provide circular distribution and equal light ceiling and lip height so that the ceiling is lighted well and any user cannot see the lamp
in all directions. Good diffusion, poor VCP and ESI. inside the cove. For painting inside the cove lighting, use diffuse light paint and not
❑ Prismatic Lens – produce good diffusion, high VCP and fair ESI. specular/glossy.
❑ Louvers and Baffles – can be metal or plastic and can have circular ❑ Portable lighting can be used to add drama and individuality to each room. It can be used
to egg-shaped distribution, providing good diffusion, good VCP and to highlight artwork and treasured possessions. These can include decorative lamps,
poor ESI. floor cans for lighting vertical elements, picture lights mounted on picture frames and
❑ Parabolic Louvers – extremely low brightness, very high VCP and paintings and portable spots which can be free standing, wall mounted or attached to a
good ESI. track.
❑ Batwing Diffusers – basically prismatic lenses modified for special
light distribution like a batwing.
❑ Luminaire Efficiency cannot be accurately determined using the
manufacturer’s data. In reality, there are other factors that can affect how
much light is usable on the working plane. This is where the zonal cavity
method and coefficient of utilization are used along with other light loss
factors.

LIGHTING CONSIDERATIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL


❑ Provide as much controls as possible like switches, dimmers or multilevel
switching. Not all lighting components are required at the same time (i.e.
general lighting in kitchen and under-cabinet lighting and accent lighting).
❑ For large areas, remote control of lighting can reduce energy consumption
(users don’t need to move to switch off lights). Time switches for exterior
lights can also be beneficial (users tend to forget to turn off exterior lights).
The best solution is to provide daylighting in areas usually occupied
during daytimes like living rooms and kitchens.
❑ Choose proper color for spaces (i.e. daylight colored lights for skylights
during night). Fluorescent lights can be used for work and utility areas
including kitchens, laundry and workshops, built-in architectural elements.
Incandescent lamps (warm white) can be used for bedrooms, portable lamps,
accent lights, circulation areas, stairwells, closets and exterior lighting for
short period (HID lamps for longer period operations). For mirror lighting in
bathrooms, incandescent can be good.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
❑ General Lighting – background light in a space that reduces bright contrasts between task lights and lets you move about easily. Almost every space in a house
needs general lighting – living, dining, corridors, foyers and stairs. Take note: switches shall not be located 3m from each room to remind people of turning off the
lights.
❑ Wall Lighting (either from the floor or ceiling) shall be carefully determined so people (especially those seated near the wall) do not directly see the lamps
which can cause glare. If downlights are used (not wall washers) for wall scalloping, spacing is 8-16 in. from the wall and 18-30 in. apart. Remember that wall
washers are spaced equally from the wall and apart (2-3 feet).
❑ There can be a lot of ways to achieve wall lighting like fluorescent wall lighting (concealed behind a shielding board to produce a soft diffuse light), cornice
lighting, valance lighting, valance brackets, recessed ceiling lighting and track lighting.
❑ For recessed lighting, it needs baffles, louvers and reflector cones to control fixture brightness. Use one floodlight for every 2.30sqm of floor area for general
lighting. Avoid placing units directly above seating locations. Other types of recessed lighting are eyeball, wall washer and pinpoint spots.
❑ Fluorescent lamps that are recessed can also give a wide spread of diffuse light suitable for task and general lighting especially in areas with low ceilings.
❑ Trough Lighting – basically like wall grazing. It consists of strips of small reflector bulbs, usually track mounted, concealed behind a baffle or board, or recessed in
the ceiling.
❑ Track lighting offers versatility and ease of installation. Attachments can be simply lamp holders or other complex fixtures. Common track attachments are open
downlights, lamp holders, wall washers and projector or low voltage spots.

LIGHTING FOR FOYER, HALL AND STAIRS


❑ Coordinate the lighting with the style of adjoining areas. Provide general diffusing lights for maximum lighting effect. For stairs, locate the hall fixtures near the
bottom and top of the stairs for proper shadowing of the stairs.
❑ Closet lights shall also be considered.

ACCENT LIGHTING
❑ Most accent lighting are directional in character, especially where the beam is controlled. Most accent lights are also recessed or track mounted.
❑ Open reflector accent lighting – aimed at 30-degrees angle to center of work or approximately 5 feet (1.50m) above the floor to avoid reflected glare.
❑ Low voltage or projector spots providing very narrow beam are used for small area or long throw of light like small sculpture.
❑ Framing projectors eliminate spill light around a picture or table top.
❑ Pendant downlights are hung low over a cocktail table.
❑ Built-in lighting for shelves and display cases can also work with open reflector or concealed fluorescent tubes.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
❑Lighting for Mood. Candle and oil lighting creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. This can be
recreated using small spotlights and shaded lamps and darkened floors and ceilings which
absorb light than reflecting it.
❑Well-balance lighting. In some cases, lights must be turned on if daylight falls below a certain
level. This can be done by light-sensitive switches.
❑Remember to install the appropriate types of luminaires in inaccessible areas (less maintenance
fixtures).
❑Directional spotlights reinforce natural light from skylight while picking out pictures on the wall.
❑For reading, light shall be towards the page (behind or over the reader).
❑For television viewing – low level indirect light adjacent to the set can reduce eye strain.
❑For dining area – remember that the light bulb shall not be seen by the user.
❑For writing – like reading, light source shall be placed so no shadow is cast on the task.
❑For bedroom lighting – reading light can be placed to one side of the bed or behind it to avoid
glare.
❑For bathroom lighting – light shall shine on the user, not on the mirror. Lights on sides are
recommended, not lights from above.
❑Light cupboards and shelves – concealed or shaded strip light are recommended and positioned
above shelves.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
WHAT IS LIGHTING DESIGN?
SIZES AND PATTERNS OF LUMINANCES
❑ Luminaires that are numerous, large, very bright or arranged in striking patterns tend to attract more attention to themselves and away from the luminaires.
❑ Fluorescent larger than 2’ x 4’ (0.6m x 1.2m) should not be used on ceilings lower than 3.00m.
❑ Transilluminated ceilings (luminous ceilings with lamps behind) shall be mounted 12’ minimum (3.65m). Lowering these light may feel oppressive like the sky is
lowered. Coffer-type fixtures can be an alternative.
❑ Lighting pattern shall reinforce any dominant architectural pattern, not cross-purpose it. For example, the dominant ceiling design shall be reinforced by
appropriate lighting. Arrangement of luminaires has different effects.
❑ Longitudinal lines increase apparent length, direct traffic and decrease direct glare.
❑ Horizontal lines create a plane, increase apparent width but also increase direct glare.
❑ Diagonal lines minimize shadows and break rectangular patterns which is an architecturally dominant lighting.
❑ Rectangular pattern is architecturally dominant and a poor choice in stores where downward attention is required.
❑ Cornices, valances and coves are luminous ceiling borders. In large rooms suspended coves achieve uniform ceiling brightness and when designed with a
downward component or combined with local lighting, as illustrated, give a pleasant intimate atmosphere.
❑ Coffers create decorative architectural effect and can be designed to resemble skylight or can be built into actual skylights.
❑ Luminous ceiling system utilizing louvers or translucent material suspended beneath rows of fluorescent lamps provides high illumination, low brightness
and high diffusion. This is architecturally oppressive and monotonous, requiring some accent of either color or lighting.
❑ Downlight are architecturally neutral and may therefore be spaced evenly or unevenly.
❑ Lighting can be used to connect the inside and outside of a building by simply continuing the lighting pattern beyond the window or wall glass provides
visibility from inside out as well as outside in.
❑ Visible fixtures even if unlit can be accentuated and treated as architectural motif.
❑ Generally, continuous row installations are more attractive than individual units and to eliminate the dominating checkerboard effect of the latter.
❑ Coves and cornices give the ceiling a floating or light effect.
❑ Geometric patterns can be used to add interest or break monotony of large spaces, such as department stores.
❑ Illumination levels tend to drop off at least 30% near walls even in a well-designed installation because of wall reflection and absorption (especially if walls have
other elements like books shelves or dark-colored designs). This can be solved by adding additional either towards the task or the wall (wall washing or perimeter
lighting).
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
BASICS OF LIGHT
DEFINITION OF LIGHT • Luminous Intensity - a measure of the wavelength-
• Depending on the person asked, the definition of light weighted power emitted by a light source in a
can differ. The phenomenon of light was early theorized particular direction per unit solid angle, based on the
by several personalities like Euclid who theorized that luminosity function, a standardized model of the
light travels in straight lines, Ptolemy who expanded the sensitivity of the human eye. It is analogous to pressure
theories of Euclid and Al-Haytham who theorized that or voltage. The SI unit of luminous intensity is the
light is a material produced by light sources. There have candela (cd), an SI base unit. Other unit is called
been a lot of studies that focus on the behavior of light, candlepower (cp) but already obsolete.
which categorizes its as both wave and particle. • Luminous Flux – rate of flow of light per time in solid
• Light is a wave, a portion of the electromagnetic angle of one steradian. It is analogous to current or
spectrum that can be perceived by human eyes. Like water flow rate. It is measured in lumens (lm).
other waves, it has wavelength (380-770nm), energy, Luminous flux is defined in relation to luminous intensity
speed and frequency. Light is also a particle (as (candela). That is, when the luminous angle of a light
theorized by some, although debunked by others several source is one solid angle and the luminous flux is 1
times). Light as a wave-particle duality (quanta) can be lumen, its luminous intensity is 1 candela.
related to the quantum theory and explains why light is • IMPORTANT NOTE: In simplified photometry,
both considered wave and particle. luminance and illuminance are the term used.
• For others, light is an art (which can help express Remember that luminance (photometric
emotion and idea) and a tool for designing spaces and brighness) generally refers to both
environments. luminous intensity and luminous flux, for
simplicity of measurement and discussion.
NOTES FROM SALVAN Luminous intensity and luminous flux are the
• Light is “visually evaluated radiant energy” or a form of terms used more in the in-depth photometry
energy that we can see. Since light is a wave, remember and physics, along with luminosity, radiant
that HIGHER WAVELENGTH, LOWER ENERGY, REDDISH flux, luminous energy, etc.
• Luminous transmittance – measure of capability to • Another unit of luminance is foot-lambert
transmit light (ratio of how much light is transmitted). It which equal to the luminance of a surface
is also know as transmittance, transmission factor or emitting a luminous flux or one lumen per
coefficient of transmission. Take note that this is only sq. foot, the luminance of a perfectly reflecting
the average transmission and it is only applied for surface receiving an illumination of one-foot
materials without selective absorption (like clear and candle. It can also be expressed in candela
frosted glass). Selective absorption means that some (cd) per square meter, an SI unit. Other units
light is absorbed by a material so the material appears to are lambert (non-SI).
have a color (i.e. red glass). • Illumination – density of luminous energy or light falling
• Reflectance (aka reflectance factor and reflectance in a surface, measured in footcandles (fc) or lux (lx). The
coefficient) – ratio of reflected to incident light. 50% or usual conversion is 1 fc = 10.76 lux or simply 10 lux.
0.5 reflectance means that half of the incident light is • Footcandle (fc) = lumens/sq.ft.
bounced back and half is either absorbed, transmitted or • Lux (lx) = lumens/sq.m.
both. Remember that reflectance is not always
consistent because at smaller angle, light is generally TYPES OF LIGHT SOURCES
reflected instead of transmitted or absorbed. The type of • Primary sources – source emitting light directly.
material (specular, transparent or opaque) also affect • Secondary sources – source emitting light by reflection.
how and how much light is reflected.
• Important Note: The term “diffused” can be
both applied in reflection and transmission.
Simply, there is a diffused reflection and
diffused transmission (both scatters light).
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHT AND VISION
• Primary light sources emit or generate light like the sun, moon and lamps (although, not sure why moon is included). Secondary light
sources are light reflected from reflective surfaces (which almost all surfaces). These light enters the eyes and converted into electrical
signals sent to the brain.
• The eye is the visual organ used by humans to see light and perceive colors. The typical parts are:
• Cornea – clear covering over the iris and pupil
• Pupil – opening of the iris that allows light to enter
• Retina – a membrane lining the eye, opposite the pupil, which contains photo-sensitive cells that provide vision.
• Rods – photoreceptors that provide black and white vision, active at low light levels.
• Cones – photoreceptors for color vision, active at higher light levels.
• Ganglion cells – newly discovered cells but not related to vision but more on the circadian rhythym.
• Fovea – the area at the center of the retina where we have a detailed vision. The middle bar is not in gradient. This illusion is
because of how we perceive contrast and appraent
• Our eyes is a complex device. There are two important actions related to vision in the eyes – accommodation and adaptation.
brightness by the relationship of an object to its
• Accommodation is the eye’s ability to refocus which makes us see things from afar and near, which is directly related to he position background.
of eye’s fovea.
• Adaptaion is the eye’s ability to adapt to changes in brightness, making us still see things in dim environments. There can be three
categories for this adaptation:
• Photopic vision – vision with the brightest illumination (like in a sunny day). This is dominated by the cones and therefore,
colors are best seen.
• Mesopic vision – vision with lower illumination, where both rods ad cones are used. Partial color vision is present.
• Scotopic vision – vision with the lowest illumination (like night without moon) where the rods mostly function for vision.
Colors are not seen but there is still minimal vision.
• Perception of color happens when light is absorbed by either three of the cone receptors (which makes us trichromatic) – red, green and
blue or in technical terms, cones for short, medium and long wavelength. This trichromatic theory of vision (aka Young-Helmholtz
trichromatic theory) was first proposed by Thomas Young and later demonstrated by Hermann von Helmholtz in 1800s.
• These cones help us perceive the different wavelengths of visible light (which makes color). These cones also explain some of the color
theory ideas like why yellow tend to look bright than other colors, which is explained by the fact that under normal light conditions (photopic
vision), green-yellow wavelength is the highest peak response of the eye’s cones.
• When using light to do a visual task, there are several considerations or concepts that affect out vision. This include:
• Size and viewing duration of the task – some tasks require more light because of the size of the object (like sewing) or duration of
the viewing (like fast transaction in banks)
• Brightness – a relative aspect of light because each person can adapt to different levels brightness differently. Appararent
brightness is the perceived brightness of a lightsource or illuminated object, mostly because of its color.
• Contrast – relationship of the object viewed or focused and the background. Perceived contrast is affected by the illumination
(higher illumination produces higher contrast) and reflectance of the surface. Contrast between two objects (background and
foreground) can be measured by the difference of their reflectance.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHT AND VISION
PSYCHOLOGICAL CONCEPTS FOR CONSIDERATION IN LIGHTING DESIGN
• Vision – is the faculty or capability to see and is very important in lighting design.
• Perception – is a way of regarding, understanding or interpreting something: a mental impression.
• Schema – templates affecting our expectations and interpretations. These are mental structures that
organize our knowledge about something, and it should considered by any designers.
• Impression – subjective response to an object or idea. Lighting designs can also create different
impressions from different individuals. There is no standard impression for an object. It is always
relative to the observer’s experiences and schema.

EXAMPLES HOW DIFFERENT LIGHTING ARRANGEMENT AFFECT IMPRESSION TO THE SPACE


• The arragnement of light can affect the impression of the space and environment. General diffuse
lighting is the lowest in terms impression because it is too monotonous. Illuminating walls increased
the impression of spaciousness and improved perceptual clarity.
• Lighting can be a means to communicate ideas and generate impressions.
• Remember that visual clarity is reinforced by higher light levels on the working space, light
in the center of the room and some wall illuminance.
• Spaciousness is reinforced by uniform perimeter lighting like wall lighting.
• Relaxation and privacy is reinforced by nonuniform perimeter lighting and isolated lighting.

The space looks simple The impressions are The impression for this type o The impressions for this type Overhead diffuse lighting at Combinations of 1,2 and 3
uncluttered, the perceptual pleasantness, simple and lighting are unpleasantness of lighting are pleasant and high intensity produce lighting produces strongly
clarity is hazy and dim and the uncluttered, and large and and monotony, dim and dull, interesting, long and spacious, unpleasant and monotonous pleasant, satisfying and
spaciousness feels small or spacious. simple and uncluttered. and the least formal among impressions, large and interesting, clear and bright
cramped. the six arrangements. spacious and the most formal. and large and spacious.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
ARTIFICIAL LIGHT SOURCES
• There are basically three general types of lamps (based on the their method of
producing light) – incandescent, discharge types and LED lamps. Take note:
Different sources group or organize these lamps in different ways, so this organization
is not standard.
• Incandescent lamps (or bulbs) – a type of lamp where light is produced by the The principle of gas-discharge lamps is In an LED lamp, the light emitting diode is enclosed
heated wire filament. A filament is a thin piece of metal with high melting point similar to the principle of lightning where in a plastic (epoxy) shell or lens. Light is produced
which glows or produce visible light with a current passing through. This property visible light or flash is also produced when whel electrons cross the semiconductor junction.
of an object (glowing when heated) is called “incandescence”. current passes between the sky and the The plasic shell helps direct the photons outward.
• Dischage-type lamps or (gas-discharge lamps) – a type of lamp where light is ground. However, in discharge lamps, the
produced by sending an electrical discharge through an ionized gas which can be current is continuous so visible light produced A diode means a semiconducting device which only
is also continuous. allows flow of current in one direction only. A
noble gas (argon, neon, krypton and xenon) or combination of these gases. Some
semiconductor is basically a material with both
sources refer to discharge-type lamps are “arc lamps” because the discharge properties of a conductor and an insulator.
occuring in an ionized gas is called arc. An igniter and a ballast is pulsed across
the lamp to ‘ignite’ or ‘strike’ the arc, after which the arc is maintained at a lower
voltage.
• LED (light emitting diodes) lamps – a type of lamp where light is produced by
passing the electric current through a semiconducting material (a diode) which
emits photons (light) through the principle of “electroluminescence”. LED lamps
fall under solid-state lighting (SSL) lamps.

• Electron-stimulated Luminescence (ESL) lamps – a newer type of lamp which


produces light by cathodoluminescence where a beam of electrons is made to hit a Different types or mixture of gases produce
fluorescent phosphor surface. This type of lamp is still in is development phase to different colors of visible light.
compete with LED lamps in terms of efficiency, but some ESL lamps are already
available.

• IMPORTANT NOTE: Lamps actually emit electromagnetic radiation in different


wavelengths like heat, UV and visible light. Visible light is the only type of
electromagnetic radiation waves we can see where wavelength ranges from around
400nm to 700nm.

• LIGHT EFFICACY VS LIGHT EFFICIENCY. Efficacy and effiency of artificial light This is how incandescent lamps work. Take note that the most common
sources can be confusing and there are sources that use these terms material for the filament is tungsten. IMPORTANT NOTE: The bulb is not in
interchangeably. Both efficacy and efficient describe how much power is converted vaccum, it is actually filled with inert gas like argon or nitrogen to slow
to light. In technical terms, lighting efficacy refers to the amount of lumens down the evaporation of the filament in very high temperature. This
Another organization of types of increases the efficacy of the lamp without deterioration of the filament. The
produced per watt. Lighting efficiency refers to the percentage of power that lamps. Take note of ESL or base of the lamp serves as the two terminals for the current to pass
is converted into something useful (visible light, in the case of lighting) and is Electron-stimulated luminescence through.
usually unitless. So efficacy is in “lumens/watt” and efficiency is in “%”. (ESL) lamps which has a different
mechanism of producing light.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
ARTIFICIAL LIGHT SOURCES
CONSIDERATIONS IN CHOOSING ARTIFICIAL LIGHT
• Light Output – about how much light is produced by a lamp. It also
considers the efficiency of a lamp.
• Quality of Light – considers the color rendition, color temperature,
dimming ability and distribution of light so it adds to the aesthetics of a
designed area.
• Light Control – some applications like selective illumination in a
particular space or façade, landscape highlighting and precise
illumination of artworks all require high degrees of control over the
beam of the light. Efficient and effective control systems can be used on
halogen, LED or CMH lamps. For broad distribution, linear or compact
fluorescents are usually used.
• Energy Efficiency or Efficacy – as usage increases, efficiency becomes
important. For higher usages like in a commercial facilities, more energy
efficient lamps are used like LEDs, ceramic metal halide and fluorescent
lamps. For low brightness or short usage like in residential or
restaurants, incandescent and halogen lamps can be used.
• ENERGY STAR – trademarked program of U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
that promotes energy efficiency.
• Maintenance and Initial Cost – maintenance is important when lamps
are installed in hard-to-reach areas like in high-bay or high-ceiling
lighting, street lighting and more. Some types of lamps require different
environments (i.e. avoid incandescent lamps in vibrating environments,
avoid LEDs in very hot environments).

The principle of gas-discharge lamps is


similar to the principle of lightning where
visible light or flash is also produced when
current passes between the sky and the
ground. However, in discharge lamps, the
current is continuous so visible light produced
is also continuous.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
INCANDESCENT LAMPS
▪ INCANDESCENT LAMP -
▪ It has a variety of forms, shapes and sizes and different types of
bases, but the most common shape for household bulbs is A19. Bulb
glass can be clear or coated.
▪ It is critically dependent/sensitive of wattage supply and voltage
changes (fluctuations affect its life, output and efficiency, especially over-
voltages).
▪ Energy to light conversion is only about 10%, the rest is converted to
heat (low energy conservation). Due to this, it is limited to infrequent or
short duration use, for low cost dimming, for focusing fixtures and for PHASING OUT OF INCANDESCENT BULBS
minimum initial cost. Take note: Philippines is one of the first to
▪ Some advantages of incandescent lamp: cheaper, instant start and ban incandescent lamps back in 2008 to
restart (no ballast), dimmable, simple and compact, high power promote energy conservation. Today,
factor, can be focused, life dependent on start and with good color. HISTORY OF INCANDESCENT BULB
Take note that ductile tungsten is the best material incandescent bulbs are rare because CFLs
▪ Some disadvantages of incandescent lamp include low efficacy, shorter and LEDs replaced them in the market.
as a filament for an incandescent bulb. Although
life, sensitive and critical to voltage changes or fluctuations, high many other scientists contributed to the However, you might still find them being sold
maintenance host, more heat is produced than light. development of the first light bulb, Thomas Edison (illegally?) for incubating chicks.
▪ Because of its inefficiency and shorter life span, compact fluorescent was generally credited because he patented the
lamps (CFLs) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are usually preferred over first practical and inexpensive type of incandescent
lamp. For more info regarding the ban, read:
these.
https://www.rappler.com/voices/imho/small-
▪ There are three (3) common types of incandescent lamps in residential
victory-energy-efficiency-philippines
applications:
▪ standard incandescent lamps (usually A19 in shape)
▪ energy saving or halogen lamps (which is an improved
version)
▪ spot or flood reflector lamps (usually in PAR shape) – usually
used for floodlighting, spotlighting and downlighting both for
indoors and outdoors. Two types are typically used – PAR lamps
and ER lamps.
▪ NOTE: Shapes are discussed separately. But incandescent lamps
can have variety of shapes. PAR INCANDESCENT LAMP – most likely, this is
halogen lamp. You can’t easily differentiate a
halogen lamp from standard incandescent lamp.
This only shows the shape of a PAR type lamp. ELLIPSOIDAL REFLECTOR LAMPS (ER SERIES)
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
HALOGEN LAMPS
▪ Halogen Lamps – a variant of incandescent lamp where the tungsten filament is enclosed
in a compact transparent envelope that is filled with a mixture of an inert gas and a small
amount of a halogen such as iodine or bromine. Also called tungsten halogen lamps,
quartz-halogen or quartz iodine lamp (only marketing names)
▪ The combination of halogen and tungsten creates a chemical reaction that
increases the life of the filament and maintaining the clarity of the envelope. SAMPLES OF COMMERCIALLY HALOGEN GU10 DOWNLIGHTS
▪ Like standard incandescent lamps, halogen lamps are less efficient than LEDs AVAILABLE HALOGEN LAMPS
and CFLs and are being slowly phased out. PARTS OF A HALOGEN BULB
▪ Many halogen lamps (low-voltage) may require a transformer (step-down) if connected
to higher line voltage. The usual voltages are 12V and 240V.
▪ Advantages – good color rendering (100), dimmable (0-100) but dimming shortens the
life span, instant start (no ballast), more compact size, longer lifespan and better
lumen maintenance over time than standard incandescent lamps.
▪ Applications – halogen lamps were known for several applications but slowly being
replaced in some applications by LEDs due to longer lifespan of LED lamps. Generally,
halogen lamps are more compact in size so they are preferred ins some applications
requiring smaller lamps (i.e. projectors and illumination).
▪ automobile headlamps
▪ floodlights for outdoor lighting systems as well as for watercraft, commercial
and recreational use These are the most common shape of SAMPLES OF COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE HALOGEN LAMPS (from SHOPEE)
▪ medical uses like as near-infrared light sources in infrared spectroscopy
▪ heating elements of halogen ovens and ceramic cooktops and for animal cages
halogen lamps (for spot lighting)
▪ indoor and outdoor general lighting (but being replaced by LEDs)
▪ stage lighting – if using incandescent for stage lighting, halogen lamps are more
preferred. However, LEDs in stage are also increasingly used due to longer lifespan
and different colors that can be produced.
▪ projection lamps for motion picture and slide projectors for homes and small
facilities
▪ Note: the most common halogen lamp for interior design is the Halogen GU10
downlights.
▪ Note: In the US alone, halogen PAR38, PAR30 and PAR20 are being phased out due to low
energy efficiency. It also includes incandescent lamps, nearly all 4-foot T-12 lamps, 4-foot
T8 lamps and most 8-foot T12 lamps.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS FLUORESCENT LAMPS
• Fluorescent Lamp – a type of lamp where light is produced by an electric current conducted
LOW PRESSURE through mercury and inert gas in a tube. The produced light includes UV which is converted
to through the phosphor coating on the inside of the tube.

DISCHARGE LAMPS •


While incandescent lamps are generally credited to Thomas Edison, fluorescent lights are
credited to General Electric which had the first patent for commercial fluorescent lighting.
Like all other gas discharge lamps, fluorescent lamps require ballasts to regulate the
• Gases react differently under different levels of pressure, which operating current and provide a high start-up voltage and a starter to start the gas
affect the type or quality of light they produce. There are generally discharge current. Special types of ballasts exist like electronic ballasts which are more
three categories of lamps that fall under gas-discharge lamps – energy-efficient and better control as compared to magnetic ballasts. Other types of ballasts TUBULAR FLUORESCENT
low-pressure, high-pressure and high-intensity (HID). allow dimming of the light. Note: Ballasts and starts are discussed further on the last parts of
TUBE LAMPS
this chapter.
• Low-Pressure Discharge Lamps – lamps operating at much less • The standard fluorescent lamps are either preheat, rapid start or instant start (but rapid
Take note that T12, T8, and T5
than the atmospheric pressure. start type is usually the most common). are codes for the shape of
• High-Pressure Discharge Lamps – lamps operating under • Modern fluorescent lamps today have color temperature and color rendition similar to fluorescent lamps. There are
incandescent lamps. also LEDs with these shapes.
somewhat higher pressure than low-pressure discharge lamps
(there is no definite and established range). • Physical Characteristics
• Standard types of fluorescent lamps are mostly straight tubes (called linear
• High-Intensity Discharge Lamps – lamps with higher light fluorescent), but U-shaped, circular and right-angle lamps are also available.
output per unit area od the bulb. HID lamps are usually • Traditional/standard tube-type fluorescent lamps are usually identified as T12 and
characterized by their bright arcs as compared to the softer light typically installed in a dedicated fixture with built-in magnetic ballast. The older T12
produced by the low-pressure lamps. High-pressure and high- are now being replaced by T8 and T5 fluorescent tubes which is smaller in size
intensity lamps are usually interchanged because they mostly but are more efficient (some say T12 are no longer manufactured). T8 and T5 can
produce 90-100 lumens/watt while T12 fluorescent lamps are typically 57
refer to the very same group of lamps. lumens/watt. (However, take note: T8 and T5 are now slowly being replaced by T8
• Two general types of Low Pressure Gas Discharge Lamps: and T5 LED tubes which are longer lasting and require no ballast and starter).
• Fluorescent Lamps (standard and compact) • Common types/sizes are 40-watt with 1.20m length (4 feet) and 75-watt with 2.40m
• SOX Lamps (Low Pressure Sodium Lamps) (8 feet). Length of fluorescent tubes range from 2 feet (600mm) to 8 feet (2.40m).
• ADVANTAGES. Compared to incandescent lamps, advantages of fluorescent lamps include
good color rendering index, higher efficiency and longer life span.
• DISADVANTAGES. Some disadvantages of fluorescent lamps are the risk of UV emission, CIRCULAR FLUORESCENT TUBE LAMPS
mercury content, reduced life span when used with dimming and other control devices, These types of lamps are called circline lamps and commonly used for
reduced lumen output overtime, difficult disposal, requires ballast and starters, and portable task lighting (i.e. desklights).
longer warm-up time when used in colder spaces. Usually, the longer the fluorescent lamp
burns, color shifting is evident where chemical imbalance inside the tube produces other
colors (which is why grouping of fluorescent lamps are preferred to correct this issue). Some
sources say that older models of fluorescent lamps can produce flickering lights which
causes visual irritation. Some sources also say that fluorescent lamps give off harsh lighting
because there is not standard definition for harsh lighting (maybe it means the very bright
general lighting than fluorescent lamps tend to produce).
• TYPICAL APPLICATIONS. Fluorescent lamps are typically used:
• for general lighting (which creates less glare as compared to an incandescent
lamp) like overhead ambient lighting in commercial, industrial or hospital facilities.
Take note: linear fluorescents are rarely used for accent lighting.
• high-bay lighting – newer versions of fluorescent lamps can be used for high-bay HIGH-BAY FLUORESCENT TUBE LAMPS
or high-ceiling lighting (in large areas). Although, HID lamps are more popular for These types of fluorescent are just grouped lamps on a fixture and are
these uses, fluorescent lamps are also used. Some sources compare using HID intended for high-bay installation. There is no standard height for high
lamps and high-bay fluorescent lamps, and in some cases fluorescent lamps are bay (around 20 to 45 feet) like in warehouse or storage areas.
better.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS notes from MAX FAJARDO
TYPES OF FLUORESCENT LAMPS (based on starting technology)
LOW PRESSURE DISCHARGE o There are three different types of starting technologies used for fluorescent lamps (which actually refer to the circuit configuration of
the lamp) – pre-heating, rapid start and instant start. Another special type of starting is the cold cathode fluorescent lamps

LAMPS (CCFLs). Take note that in modern models, other types of starting mechanisms are available like electronic ballasts and ballasts with
dimming functionalities.
Preheat Fluorescent Lamp – a variant of a fluorescent lamp with preheated design. It uses a manual switch or thermal starter to
PREHEAT FLUORESCENT – take note
o of the separate starter component. Ito
preheat the cathode for a few seconds before high voltage is applied to strike the mercury arc. When the lamp circuit is closed,
FLUORESCENT LAMP
yung typically nakikita nating bilog sa
the starter energizes the cathode and after a few seconds, initiates a high voltage arc across the lamp causing it to start. housing ng fluorescent lamps.
o Instant Start Fluorescent Lamp (1940s, aka Slim Lamp) – an improvement of the previous preheat fluorescent lamp where there
is actually no preheating of the cathodes. The lamp turns on instantly because of a special type of ballast that can supply
WHAT IS FLUORESCENT LAMP?
enough energy to start and mainain the arc inside the tube. It is characterized by single pins at each end of the tube (bi-pins are
o First introduced in 1937 and was considered the best and mostly widely
available for the second pin is only for support) and the lack of a starter. Since no preheating is required, it is not sensitive to
used type of lamp (with varieties of sizes, wattages, colors, voltages and
temperature.
specific applications).
▪ It is operated at various specifications like current (200 mA and 425 mA) and length (24”, 36”, 42”, 48”, 60”, 64”, 72”, 84” and
o The most common type is cathode fluorescent lamp with a
96”).
cylindrical glass tube sealing mixture like argon and mercury ▪ This lamp is hot cathode, instant start lamp, different from the high voltage cold cathode type. It is more expensive and less
vapor. The cathode at each end supplies the electron to start and efficient than rapid start type.
maintain the mercury arc or gaseous discharge. The shortwave UV light o Rapid Start Fluorescent Lamp (1950s, more popular) – an improvement of the preheat fluorescent lamp but preheating is
from the mercury arc is absorbed by the phosphorous coating inside achieved throught a starter integrated in the ballast itself. So there is no separate starter (check the diagram). Rapid start has no
the tube and re-radiated in the visible light range. It is called delay in starting due to a constantly heated cathode.
fluorescent because phosphorous radiate light when exposed to ultra ▪ Note: 40W T12 is the most populat rapid start lamp usually represented by F40 T12 WW R/S. Note: T12 is now
violet rays. replaced by newer and more energy efficient T8 and T5 fluorescent versions which are also being replaced by LEDs
o It requires ballast which is composed of coil to limit the current in with the same form factor.
the circuit, which if not controlled, will trip the circuit breaker. ▪ Another disadvantage of this lamp is the glare produced, so it is usually used for outdoor sign lighting, street lighting and
o Advantages and Disadvantages: merchandise display. Note: This is no longer true since fluorescent lamps are now generally used for general or INSTANT START FLUORESCENT –
▪ Fluorescent lamp is higher efficiency the incandescent lamp ambient lighting in offices, warehouse and commerical facilities. take note of the single pin at then of
where 20% of its energy is converted to light and 80% to heat. o Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp (CCFL) – a special type of fluorescent lamp with a cathode that is not electrically heated by a the tubes and the lack of any starter
Note: efficiency is how much energy is converted to light while filament. The cathode is considered “cold” because it emits more electrons than can be supplied by thermionic emission alone. This for preheating the cathodes.
efficacy is how much lumen per watt is produced. cold cathode is used in gas-discharge lamps, such as neon lamps, discharge tubes and some types of vacuum tube.
▪ Fluorescent lamp has longer lifespan than incandescent ▪ Advantages and Disadvantages – it has a very long life compared to hot cathode lamps because it is not affected by the
lamp which is affected by the number of switching on and off number of starting or switching of the lamp. It has a lower overall efficacy compared to hot cathode lamps and is generally
(switching wears out the cathode while burning can last 30,000 used for continuous burning is required.
hours). The total life span is reduced if the continuously used HOW TO READ SPECIFICATIONS OF FLUORESCENT LAMPS?
(i.e. 3 hours per start). o Fluorescent lamp specifications are usually printed on the bulb itself or on the packaging. Although there is no specific standard for
▪ Summary of fluorescent lamp characteristics: the nomenclature of fluorescent lamps, there is a general rule that can be observed:
• Life span depends on the burning hours per start. o “F” standands for Fluorescent and usually succeeded with the wattage or for some instances, the length of the tube. For
• Lumen output decreases rapidly during the first 100 example, F32 and F40 means 32 and 40 wattage fluorescent lamps while F71 means the lamp is 71” long. Note: “FC”
hours of burning and thereafter much more slowly. usually means “circular fluorescent” and “FU” means U-shaped fluorescent lamps.
• Efficacy depends on the operating current and the o “T” standands for tubular which designates that the lamps is tubular in shape and followed by the diameter of the tube
phosphors utilized. The warm white lamp is more (fractions of eights of an inch). There is a general standard for the lamp shape codes. The common types of tubular
efficient than the white, cool white, daylight and shapes for fluorescent lamps are T8 and T5 which replaced the older T12 fluorescent tubes.
colored lamps. o Some other details can be printed on bulbs like “R” which determines if the lamp or fixtures has reflector inside it, “BP”
means bi-pin or 2-pins which describes the pin on each end of the tube, “CW/WW/WWX etc” means the color
temperature of the lamp, “RS” means rapid start (no suffix means preheat lamps), “ES” means energy-saving, “HO/VHO” RAPID START FLUORESCENT – take
means high-output or very high-output. Note: There can be a lot of information coded in the fluorescent tube but note of the bi-pin ends of the tube
just be familiar of the basic like the F and T designations. and the lack of starter component.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS FLUORESCENT LAMPS
LOW PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS

SAMPLES OF FLUORESCENT LAMPS AVAILABLE ONLINE


Take note: kakaunti na lang ang nakikita kong nagbebenta
online ng fluorescent lamps. Usually puro LED lamps na ang
binibenta, even OMNI is puro LED lights na. It only shows that
LED lamps are slowly replacing the fluorescent lamps.

TYPICAL MARKINGS IN A
FLUORESCENT LAMP
The images shows the typical
markings of the specs of a
fluorescent lamp as discussed
previously. Take note that one of
the lamps is used as a tanning
GENERAL ELECTRIC SHIFTS TOWARD LED lamp (in foreign countries) which
In 2016, General Electric (GE) announced that they will provides UV emissions. So there
is a “danger” marking also.
discontinue to manufacture CFLs. I don’t know if it
means also the linear fluorescent lamps but take note
TYPICAL CIRCUIT DIAGRAM FOR A that there already some regulations that phases out TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE MARKINGS TAKE NOTE OF THESE:
the T12, T8 and T5 fluorescent lamps for the LED ON FLUORESCENT TUBES: READ UVA – 315 – 415nm wavelength
FLUORESCENT LAMP
UVB – 280 – 315nm wavelength
These diagrams show a preheat type versions. https://insights.regencylighting.com/how-to-read- UVC – 200 – 280nm wavelength
fluorescent lamps because of the separate a-light-bulb-part-number-linear-fluorescent-tubes
starter. Take note: It is suprising that starters
are still used locally which somehow shows that
rapid-start fluorescent lamps are not still
popular in the country.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS FLUORESCENT LAMPS
LOW PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS

THE MAIN DIFFERENT OF CCFL AND STANDARD


FLUORESCENT TUBES IS THE TYPE OF CATHODE. CCFLs uses
an electrode without filament. I’m not sure if this type of
fluorescent lamp is still used or available.

DIFFERENT MECHANISM OF STARTING A


FLUORESCENT LAMP
Take note of the differences between preheat, rapid start
and instant start.

FLUORESCENT LAMPS APPLICATIONS BALLASTS AND STARTERS


Fluorescent lamps are used for general lighting, usually for commercial Take note: medyo mahirap na ring makahanap ng ballasts and starters online, primarily because
and office lighting. It is characterized by it diffused white lighting, which shifting towards LED na tayo. So usually, LED replacement na yung ginagawa sa mga lumang
are usually improved by reflectors or the fixtures housings. You cannot fluorescent lamps. Pero, you can observe na may nagbebenta pa rin ng magnetic and electronic
actually simply differentiate fluorescent lamps from LEDs because they ballasts.
are now manufactured in the same form (T12, T8 and T5).
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMPS
LOW PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS
WHAT IS COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMP?
• Compact fluorescent lamps – are compact versions of the standard tubular fluorescent lamps, which usually has
integrated electronic ballast on its base. These are also called compact fluorescent light, energy-saving light or compact
fluorescent tube. The compact size of the CFLs allowed for easier replacement of less energy-efficient incandescent and
halogen lamps on fixtures.
• Since the invention of fluorescent lamps, compact or smaller versions were already being planned but the first CFLs are not
commercially viable because of high production cost. But in 1980, Phillips became the first manufacturer to mass-produce a
CFL with screw-in base.
• In terms functionality, compact fluorescent lamps work the same way as the standard fluorescent straight or U-tubes.
Overall, it is essentially just a smaller more compact version of fluorescent lamps for smaller purposes such as a TYPES OF PLUG-IN BASE FOR CFLs
stand-alone bulb or a component for a small fixture. (take note of the 2 general groups – 2-pin and 4-pin bases)
• Generally there are two types of CFLs based on their bases – screw-in (integrated ballast) and plug-in types (non-
integrated ballast). However, there are now several shapes and configurations of CFLs depending on the bulb shape,
SHOWING THE DIFFERENT VARIETIES OF CFLs
number of tubes, type of base, outer protective covering and reflector sides.
• Screw-in type CFLs – are self-ballasted types with screw-base. These are the most common. These are available
(depending on the bulb shape, configuration or
in “twin tubes” or “coiled tubes”. base). Take note of the double-envelope CFLs
• Plug-in type CFLs – are the types without integrated ballasts. These are also commonly referred to as “twin tube becuse it can block or reduce the amount of UV
CFLs” due to the typical two connected tubes attached to the CFL’s base. However, note that there are also coiled emission from the bulb. REMEMBER than all
CFLs with a plug-in type bases (as seen from a Google search). The number of pins typically denote the type of fluorescent lamps produce UV amount which
ballast it requires – 2-pin base for magnetic ballasts and 4-pin base for electronic ballasts. There are several can be harmful to human skin (like UV from the
bases for plug-in type CFLs and they are unique and non-interchangeable. sun).
• PRACTICAL NOTE: This type of CFL base is generally hard to remove from a housing or fixture as
compared to the screw-type bases. Some breaks the glass tube while trying to remove plug-in type
CFLs.
• Like standard fluorescent tubes, CFLs can also be rapid start (most fixtures) or instant start (used mostly for cool areas and
outdoors). In most CFLs, there is no noticeable warm-up time before the lamp reach its full brightness. CFLs are mostly SHOWING HOW DIFFICULT IT IS TO REMOVE PLUG-IN TYPE CFL BULBS
marketed as “instant on”.
• ADVANTAGES. CFLs (like all other fluorescent lamps) are more energy efficient than incandescent and halogen bulbs and
due to its design, can easily or upgrade incandescent lamps. The are also primarily popular due to its long life and low
cost. When CFLs are near its end of life, the light production is lesser unlike incandescent lamps where there is no light at
all.
• DISDAVANTAGES. CFLs have several advantages, but one major disadvantage is its non-compatibility with control
devices like dimming controls, timers or photosensors. While there are means to use CFLs in these applications, life span is
generally reduced with dimming or frequent rapid switching off (premature burnout). CFLs are more expensive than
incandescent lamps. Like all fluorescent lamps, UV emissions from CFLs is also a concern which led to development of
double envelop CFLs. CFLs are also sensitive to temperature because too much heat affects the ballast or capacitor
(which is why CFLs are easily burning out when used in recessed insulated cans). All fluorescent lamps contain a small
amount of mercury which is still hazardous, so disposal of CFLs is difficult (recycling is preferred). Some countries have
regulations regarding the disposal of any mercury-based lamps like fluorescent tubes and CFLs.
• VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: CFLs are also now slowly being replaced by LED lamps because it is more energy efficient, longer life
span and without the risk of mercury gas. Most LED lamps use the base types common in incandescent lamps and CFLs.
SCREW-IN AND PLUG-IN TYPE BASE
DIFFERENT TYPES OF PLUG-IN TYPE CFLs
FOR CFLs
This are only for 4-pin type bases. There is
also 2-pin type CFL base. (take note that screw-in type has an
electronic ballast)
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMPS
LOW PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS

DOUBLE-ENVELOP CFLS where the additional layer can block UV light.

PARTS OF COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMP


Take note that this is a screw-in type so
CFLs AVAILABLE ONLINE there is already a ballast/choke, as
Take note: Wala na masyadong nagbebenta ng CFLs ngayon, puro LED compared to plug-in type CFLs.
na. Same socket/base rin naman, minsan same shape pa. May spiral
LED lamps din kasi na available. So, mukhang malapit na rin maphase-
out ang CFLs locally. This is expected kasi sobrang baba ng wattage ng IMPORTANT NOTE: DIFFERENT AVAILABLE COLOR TEMPERATURE FOR CFL
mga LED lamps (around 3-10 watts lang for yung equivalent ng 30- Even the government promotes the use of LED Remember that color temperature is denoted by the Kelvins (K). CFLs
50watts na CFLs). Even ang OMNI, puro LED na rin ang lamps over CFLs in government offices. Read using different combinations of phosphor coating can produce
minamanufacture. more here: different color temperatures (from warm white, cool white to
http://www.ps-philgeps.gov.ph/home/index.php/about-ps/news/245- daylight). This is one main advantage of CFLs over incandescent bulbs
ps-philgeps-promotes-the-use-of-led-for-lighting-government-facilities
which is typically limited to warm white range.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LOW PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMPS
• Low Pressure Sodium Lamps (available in 1960s) – a type of
discharge lamp where light is produced by exciting the sodium
metal mixed with inert glass inside a glass tube. It is the first type
of sodium to be developed (Philips was the first manufacturer
that commercialized SOX lamps).
• It is usually designated as LPS or SOX lamps.
• CHARACTERISTICS
• Color Rendering Index is 0 which create a monochromatic
yellow lighting. The light initially starts as reddish glow until it
becomes pure yellow. It is also the reason why SOX lamps are
almost only used for street lighting and security lighting
(although being slowly replaced by LEDs).
• It has the highest efficiency of all HID lamps since it converts
all the current to create light at the most eye-sensitive
frequency of visible light. While incandescent is also yellowish, PARTS OF A LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMP (SOX LAMP)
it produces UV which is not visible, so only 10% is actually
converted to light.
• SOX lamps have good lumen maintenance which means they
do not decline in terms of lumen output overtime.
• SOX lamps are also considered low-intensity lamps which is
why they produce less glare (just like fluorescent lamps).
• Sodium is a hazardous material so disposal is difficult.
PARTS OF A LOW PRESSURE
• IMPORTANT NOTE: As of 2019, SOX lamps are already being
SODIUM LAMP (SOX LAMP)
phased-out in favor of LED-based lighting which is more energy Take note of the typical shape of
efficient (Philips already announced). the tube inside the outer glass.
LOW PRESSURE SODIUM LAMPS (AS USED IN STREET LIGHTING)
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS HIGH-PRESSURE MERCURY VAPOR LAMPS
High-Pressure Mercury Vapor Lamps (HPMV) (often
HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS simply called as Mercury Vapor Lamps) – a type of lamp
where the light is produced by an electric arc through a
• High Pressure Discharge Lamps – types of lamp that operate under slightly less to greater
vaporized mercury.
than atmospheric pressure. High Pressure or HID lamps are usually used when high levels
of light over large area is required such as gymnasiums, warehouses, movie theaters, • Construction – electric arc produced in a quartz tube
football stadia, outdoor activity areas, roadways, airport taxiways and parking lots. enclosed in a larger glass bulb (usually borosilicate). The
• Note: High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps also refer to the same group of lamps outer bulb may be clear or phosphor-coated which
but the definition of HID lamps most appropriately refer to the intense light produced provides thermal insulation, UV protection and
by the highly powered electric arc compared to other lamps with the same arc length. It convenient mounting of the quartz tube. It can have
means that there is higher quantity of light per unit area of in the lamp package
or tube (higher than 3 watts per sq.cm.) These are also referred to as High Energy
external ballast or self-ballasted (SB lamps).
Discharge Lamps. In some sources, fluorescent lamps and SOX lamps are also • Note: Phosphor is a solid material that emits light or
considered HID lamps (but operating at low pressure). luminesces, when exposed to radiation such as UV light or an
• Common characteristics of HID Lamps: electron beam.
• ballasts are also required (like in fluorescent lamps) • The light produced is typically bluish-green tint
• slow starting (warm-up or run time) up to 10 minutes because the ballast
because of mercury but phosphor coating provides
needs time to establish the electrical arc.
• produces intense light at a high efficacy increased color correction. When initially turned on, the
• commonly used for outdoor lighting and where lighting is not subjected to lamp is dark blue which eventually becomes bluish or
frequent switching whitish if coated.
• There are three most common types of HID lamps: • Because of potential UV excaping the tube, mercury
• High Pressure Mercury Vapor Lamps
vapor lamps shall be protected through coating or
• Metal Halide Lamps (MH)
• High-Pressure Sodium Lamps special glass enclosure.
• Other types of HID lamps • This is the first type of High Pressure or High Intesity
• Ceramic MH Lamps Discharge Lamps, but the least efficient. It is now slowly SB (self-ballasted
• Xenon short-arc Lamps being obsolete and replaced by metal halide lamps which type) Mercury
has higher efficiency and better color rendering. Vapor Lamps –
medyo mahirap
• Applications – MV lamps are generally used for outdoor madifferentiate
street lighting, although there is already slow yung difference
upgrading of lamps towards LEDs. Even street lighting niya from non-self-
ballasted mercury
are slowly being replaced by LEDs. vapor lamps.

Three types of HID Lamps – (from the left) Mercury Vapor Lamp (coated), Metal Halide
Lamp and High Pressure Sodium Lamp.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS notes from Max Fajardo
HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS o Typical Forms of Mercury Lamps:
▪ Color suffixes – “Dx” means deluxe white, “N” means style-tone, “R”
means beauty lite and no suffx means non-phorous coated (confirm

HIGH-PRESSURE ▪
further).
Description symboles – “B” means black light, “FF” means froasted face,

MERCURY VAPOR LAMPS “G” means general lighting, “W” means wide beam, “RF” means reflector
flood, “S” means street lighting and “VW” means very wide beam.
o Types of Ballasts
• Mercury Lamp – a lamp using a combinatio of the arc discharge like
▪ Note that ballasts are basically simple reactors that starts and control
FLs, but with compact focusable shape of an incandescent lamp the lamp after the discharge has been initiated. It requires 3 to 6
providing high efficiency and longer life in various uses. minutes after switch on to reach the full output.
o Naming of Mercury Lamps (i.e. H38 MP 100DX) – “H” means ▪ Reactor Ballast – low power factor and no voltage regulator
mercury lamp, “38” means the ballast number, “MP” is the (transformer), applicable if minimum of only 5% line-voltage
lamp physical characteristics, “100” is the lamp wattage and fluctuations.
“DX” indicates phosphors, glass coating or coloring. ▪ Auto-transformer Ballast – a low-power and non-regulating reactor
o Advantages and Disadvantages: unit with transformer for matching line voltage to the lamp voltage.
▪ High power factor auto transformer ballast – same as type 2 but
▪ Lamp life is extremely long with average of 24,000
with additional capacitor to improve the power factor.
hours based on 10 burning hours per start. Since Mercury Vapor Lamp sold locally through FB.
▪ Constant Wattage Auto-Transformer Ballast (aka Lead Circuit
constant switche affects its life, it is more preferred to Ballast) – a regulating high power factor unit that maintains voltage,
be used in long period of burning. wattage and lumen output constant (only 5% wattage variation with
▪ Other factors affect its life like ambient temperature, 10% voltage change?)
line voltage and ballast design. It is replaced if ▪ Dimming Ballast or Solid-state Dimming Control – used for dimming
accelerated lumens depreciation is near the end of its the mercury lamp and available for 400-700 and 1000 watts. Dimming is
life span. Clear lamps has the best lumen maintenance done by changing the capacitance where the light output can be
followed by the color improved and phosphors coated reduced by 50% without affecting the lamp or ballast itself.
o Special type of Mercury Lamp – small mercury lamp that can replace interior
units.
incandescent lamps and are available in 40, 50, 75 to 100 and 175 watts, sizes
▪ Available in variety of shapes, sizes and colors with
in deluxe white and other color corrected design.
rating from 50 to 150 watts. ▪ Self Ballast Lamp (un-ballasted) – are types of mercury lamps without
▪ The ballast can be mounted away from the lamp. ballasts because ballast mounting is impractical and inconvenient.
▪ Since highly efficient, it is a good replacement for However, a fluorescent is a better alternative to this because of lower
incandescent lamps in terms of energy conservation. cost, longer life, high efficiency, good color, more attractive and lower
▪ Dimmable is using a dimmable ballast. energy cost.

Mercury Vapor Lamp sold


in an online shop.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS
METAL HALIDE LAMPS
• Metal Halide Lamps – type of lamp that is very similar to a mercury vapor lamp but with additional metal
halide (usually sodium salts) inside the quarts arc tube which produces other colors that mercury vapor
lamps cannot produce. These metal halides also increase efficacy but reduces the life and lumen maintenance
overtime.
• Compared to mercury lamp, it has increased efficacy, reduced life and lumens maintenance to
about 60% at 2/3 of its life but better color (CRI. When a metal halide is at the end of its life, it exhibits
cycling where the lamp will grow for a while and goes off, repeatedly.
• Some characteristics:
• Color depends on the amount of iodized-halide salt in the arc and is extremely sensitive to
voltage, temperature and burning position/angle. There are metal halides that must be
installed in a certain angle for optimal operation. Brief power interruption can even extinguish
the lamp’s arc.
• Strike time is shorter than mercury lamps (2-3 minutes). Re-strike time is longer (up to 10
minutes), so it is not recommended for indoor areas that needs immediate light. This is
because the temperature and pressure in the inner arc tube require time to reach full
operating levels.
• Since significantly identical to a mercury vapor lamp, certain metal halides are usable with
mercury lamp ballast. It also contains mercury so disposal is difficult like all other HID lamps. These images show the components and how a metal halide lamp works.
Take note of the key points like the condensed halide salts and the white CODES usually used in Metal-
• In terms of CRI, a ceramic metal halide lamp (CMH) has higher value (around 90s) as painted ends. Halide Lamps.
compared to standard MH lamps. These lamps have alumina arc tube instead of quartz.
• Typical Applications – commonly used in street lighting, parking lot lights, stadiums and sports
field flood lights and in aquarium lighting. One architectural lighting book mentioned that Metal
Halide (MH) and Ceramic Metal Halide (CMH) are the only type of HID lamps that appropriate for
indoor commercial uses in spaces like atria, malls and supermarkets. Clear MH lamps are usually used
for outdoors. Phosphor coated MH lamps are used indoor (i.e. food displays).
• Take note: LPS and HPS are not discussed in an architectural lighting book because they are not
preferred for indoor architectural lighting (low color rendering index).

METAL HALIDES ARE


USUALLY TUBULAR IN SHAPE
but there are varieties of
shape. Tubular MH Lamps are
usually used in floodlights.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS
METAL HALIDE LAMPS
SOME APPLICATIONS OF METAL HALIDE LAMPS
TUBULAR SHAPE METAL
HALIDE LAMP

NOTE: Metal halide lamps


are also used in tower lights
or light towers, usually in
construction or road
MH LAMPS IN FLOODLIGHTS
building.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS
HIGH PRESSURE SODIUM LAMPS
• High Pressure Sodium Lamps (developed in 1960s, aka HPS or SON)
– a type of High Pressure Discharge Lamp or HID Lamp where the light
is produced using the amalgam of metallic sodium and mercury inside
an arc tube but with high pressure.
• Starting the lamp is usually with a pulse start
• Famous variations
• “Lucalox” – tradename for HPS lamps by GE which uses alumina STREET LIGHT FIXTURE
as an arc tube, which paved wat for the first HPS lamps FOR HPS TYPE OF LAMP
commercialized.
• White SON – variation with higher pressure than standard HPS
lamps which produces 2,700K color temperature and a CRI of
around 85, typically used for indoors in cafes and restaurants. PARTS OF AN HPS LAMPS – take note of the common
• Characteristics commercialized shape of HPS lamps
• longer life than LPS lamps and smaller in size than LPS or XENON ARC LAMP – a type of lamp that
fluorescent lamps uses ionized xenon gas which can mimic
• produces dark pink glow when first struck and a pinkish orange natural daylight.
light when warmed up
• high efficiency (up to 140 lumens/watt)
• like SOX, high-pressure sodium lamps have lower color
rendering index than metal halide and halogen lamps
• like SOX, sodium is hazardous and may explode which make
disposal difficult.
• Applications
• HPS lamps are the most common lamp for street lighting.
• Typically used for outdoor lighting, street lighting, home yard
lighting and high-bay lighting.

HPS VS LED LIGHTS – take note that LEDs are also now
HPS VS INDUCTION LAMP AS STREETLIGHTS – take
promoted for street lighting
note of the yellowish output of an HPS lamp
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LAMP
HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS
CAPACITOR
OTHER INFORMATION
WHAT IS A BALLAST?
• A ballast is also called a choke or inductor.
• The main function of a ballast is to regulate the current
to the lamps and provide sufficient voltage to start the
lamp. Without a ballast to limit its current, any discharge
lamp would rapidly increase its current draw and explodes.
There are different types of ballasts with different
mechanisms for the same function.
BALLAST
WHAT IS AN IGNITER OR STARTER?
• An igniter or starter is also a bulb (usually argon filled) with
a normally closed thermal switch (bimetallic contact) which
helps in exciting the gases inside the tube. This is generally IGNITER or
attributed to preheating the gases inside the tube or bulb.
Initially, current flows through the starter but it suddenly STARTER
cuts off the current which makes the current flow transfer
through ionized mercury vapor inside the tube. Without a
starter, the lamp will only flicker. However, electronic
ballasts have integrated mechanism which serve the
function of a starter.
• While all HID lamps require ballasts, not all types require a
separate starter or igniter. Take note: starter and igniters
are basically the same thing, but starters usually refer to
ones being used in fluorescent lamps while igniters refer to
ones being used in other HID lamps.
TYPICAL CIRCUIT DIAGRAM FOR HID LAMPS
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
COMPARISON CHARTS

DIFFERENT COMPARISON CHARTS


Take note: LED, CFL and Incandescent/Halogen are always compared for household
lighting. Other types of discharge lamps are not compared because they are usually for
larger applications and different usage. SAMPLE COMPARISON OF THE THREE TYPES OF LAMPS
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
High Pressure
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS Characteristics Mercury Vapor
Lamps
Metal Halide Lamps
High Pressure
Sodium Lamps

Other Names HPL MH HPS, SON


HIGH PRESSURE DISCHARGE LAMPS Least efficient HID
Important Note lamp; slowly being Most efficient Fairly efficient
replaced;
OTHER INFORMATION bulb shape varies but
bulb shape varies but elliptical is
bulb shape varies
elliptical is more but elliptical is more
Shape and Look more common
common (some bulbs common
(some bulbs are coated)
are coated) (generally uncoated)

Life Span 16,000 – 24,000 5,000 – 20,000 16,000 – 24,000

Typical Light
white white yellowish
Colors

Color Rendering
50 (poor to fair) 80 – 90 (good) 65 – 85 (good)
Index (CRI)

Color 3200 – 7000 (warm to


3700 (cold) 2100 (warm)
Temperature (K) cold)

Lamp Efficacy
25 - 60 70 - 115 50 - 140
(lumens/watt)

Ballast required
(self-ballasted is Ballast required
Ballast required
Ballast and Starter available); starter is (self-ballasted is
(self-ballasted is available)
usually integrated to available)
the bulb

Start-up Time 2 – 5 minutes 15 minutes Up to 10 minutes

Typical Use Outdoors Indoors/Outdoors Outdoors

o Color Rendering Index – important for areas where accurate perception of colors are important. For primarily for street
lighting for gymnasiums and arenas
and parking lots; large indoor areas
example, in parking areas, color identification is important in searching for cars (red and black may look lighting, but Fajardo
(replaced most mercury vapor lamps
mentioned area For industrial
the same if CRI is very low). Application
lighting, emergency
because of better CRI); used where
security lighting,
Examples color is important like in TV/movie
lighting and after street lighting
prods, aquarium lighting,
hours indoor
automotive headlamps, sports
lighting
games, factories and retail stores

some variations are


available where
Not suitable for
Other Notes higher color
constant switching
rendering index is
desired
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LIGHT-EMITTING DIODES (LEDs)
• Light-emitting diodes (LED) lamps – are types of lamps where light is produced by
passing current through a semiconductor. LED lamps can produce visible light, as well as
infrared and UV light (which is why UV LED lights are also popular for disinfection).
• LEDs run on low-voltage DC, not on AC. It means that it works when current is running
in one direction. However, it can still work on AC but it will flicker very fast due to the
frequency of alternating current. LED technology is still developing and LEDs that can use
AC directly can be developed soon. LED STRIP WITH DRIVER
• LEDs as a light source is a relatively new technology which slowly replaces other types
of lamps worldwide due to its higher energy efficiency which promotes energy
conservation. Manufacture of LEDs is costly which is the reason why initial cost of LEDs
is higher than incandescent and CFLs.
• LEDs come as packages, not as standalone lighting device. Each package is typically
composed of the two semiconducting layers (P and N layers), with lens covers for
protection and light distribution, and a heatsink because LEDs are susceptible to heat.
LEDs need a driver (or power supply) to operate which is basically a smaller
transformer.
• There are several ways that LEDs produce different colors and qualities of light. One
method is to produce UV waves which excites the phosphors that emit visible light
(phosphors can be integrated in the LED itself or coated internally to the fixture). Another
method is to create different colors of light by additive mixing of colors from LED arrays
(RGB LEDs).
• LED Driver – a critical component of LED technology that regulates power to an LED or a
string of LED (also called AC-DC switch-mode power supply). LED chips are sensitive to THIS IS A DRIVER FOR LED (NON-INTEGRATED)
voltage and temperature, which if unregulated, makes the LED chip burn itself (called
thermal runaway). The LED driver is a self-contained power supply which the output
matches the requirements of the LED chip itself.
• NOTE: In many LED lamps, the driver is already integrated into the lamp
itself (so it is common to see LED lamps being sold as standalone lamps).
However, especially for larger lamps, LED drivers are not integrated to the
lamp, so they are usually installed with separate driver in a circuit. Majority of
LED lamps need drivers, driverless LEDs are uncommon.
• These are basically the functions of drivers in LED lighting:
• The driver changes the higher AC voltage into lower voltage DC
since LEDs operate on low voltage DC electricity
• The input voltage of the driver must be the same as the voltage
required by the driver. The driver regulates the voltage input to
avoid flickering or flashing.
• The driver controls the light output using pulse-width modulation. LED CHIPS ARE INTEGRATED INTO FAMILIAR LAMP SHAPES
• NOTE: In some applications, like small LEDs in toys, LEDs can conduct and As you can see, there are several ways in which the LED chips are
illuminate if connected directly to a battery. This is not always possible since installed inside an LED bulb using the more common form factor
without driver, the life of an LED is reduced. (A or T). Take note that drivers are usually internally integrated.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LIGHT-EMITTING DIODES (LEDs)
• Before 1990s, LEDs are only used for numeric displays, traffic lights and
scoreboards. However, with the invention of blue LEDs, LED developed
rapidly until it became a preferred choice for general lighting.
• Blue LEDs – are basically light-emitting diodes that produce blue light
which is an important component to create white light (remember RGB
light creates white light). The invention of the blue LEDs (red and green
were first discovered) paved way for different applications of LED such
as white light, TV and mobile screens.
ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATION OF LEDs
• LED facades

THIS IS A RETROFIT LED LAMP


There are two types of LED in the market –
retrofit LEDs and Plug-and-Play LEDs.

• SOURCE
• https://www.tcpi.com/led-architectural-lighting-a-practical-guide/
• https://www.architectmagazine.com/technology/lighting/leds-light-and-
• other infos about LED architecture_o
• http://www.lightingcompass.com/_newsletters/Citizen_Releases_their_C • https://fmlink.com/articles/lighting-methods-works-best-different-
heaper_and%20_Cooler_Version_6_LED_Lineup.pdf situations/
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LIGHT-EMITTING DIODES (LEDs)

DIFFERENT LED PRODUCTS AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET


Take note of the COB downlights. LED downlights can be COB
(chip on board) or SMD (surface mounted diodes). COB are
used for more focused LED lights (like in downlights) where the
beam of light needs to be controlled. SMD LEDs have wider
beam angles.

ORGANIC LEDS (OLEDS) – these are new types of LEDs. These


DIFFERENT LED PRODUCTS AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET (from small lamps to big lamps) are more expensive than the standard LEDS.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
OTHER LIGHTING TECHNOLOGIES
• Induction or Induction-Discharge Lamps – are types of lamps similar to fluorescent
lamps but the gas discharge is not produced by an electric arc passing through the tube
but by electromagnetic (EM) field. The visible light is also produced by the internal
phosphor coating. Because of the lack of electrodes, induction lamps have higher life (up
to 100,000 hours) and used for applications that require less maintenance or difficult to
reach and usually in areas subjected to cold temperature.
• Cold-Cathode Lamps – already discussed previously. CCFLs are usually made by hand
and can be made to different shapes and configurations. It is, however, being replaced by
LEDs.
• Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) – similar to LEDs but planar in nature instead of INDUCTION DISCHARGE LAMPS
linear or point sources. These types of light sources can be mounted on flexible surfaces Take note yung magnetic coils. Most induction lamps are circuilar or in loop shape.
or substrate like in folding or roll-up displays. However, OLEDs are less efficient and more
expensive than LEDs.
• Light-emitting Plasma (LEP) – similar to induction lighting that is similar in construction
as metal halide lamp. Since LEPs are producing high intensity of light, it is more marketed
for outdoor lighting. It is not sure if this technology will be developed more to compete
with the highly popular LED lights since LEDs already penetrated the outdoor or street
lighting industry.
• Fiber-optic Lighting -

COLD-CATHOD FLUORESCENT LAMPS


These types of fluorescent lamps are commonly used in display lighting, outdoor lighting (because it is not sensitive
to temperature) unlike the typical fluorescent lamps. It is difficult to identify a cold-cathode from a regular fluorescent
tube because the main difference lies inside the tube.

LIGHT-EMITTING PLASMA LAMPS


Take nore
OLED Lights are expected to be popular in architectural lighting. OLEDs have already been introduced in modern TV screen
technology.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
Type of Lamp Is it phased-out or banned? Notes
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS Some are still selling, which is
Incandescent Lamps Yes. Already banned in the Philippines and internationally.
used for incubating chickens.

WHICH LAMPS ARE BEING PHASED-OUT? Halogen Lamps


Yes. Since this is just like incandescent lamps, it is already
phased-out.

Any type of fluorescent lamps


Yes, but not all. T12 already phased out while T8 and T5 which
are also becoming rare locally.
Linear Fluorescent Lamps (straight are more energy-efficient than T12 are still available. However,
You can find T8 and T5 lamps,
tubes) it is expected that T8 and T5 will be phased-out soon (also in
but the available types are
favor of LED).
mostly of LED versions.

CFLs are becoming obsolete


Yes, but slowly. However, larger manufacturers are already
locally, LED lamps are being
discontinuing production of CFLs (i.e. General Electric). There
Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) promoted and sold in the local
are still locally available CFLs in the market, although LED is
market (even the government
now more preferred.
promotes LED).

Yes, but slowly. The demand for SOX lamps is decreasing.


Low-Pressure Sodium Lamps (SOX
Manufactures like Philips already announced discontinuing
Lamps)
production of SOX lamps.
PHASE-OUT TIMELINE OF PHILIPS
Yes, but not all. United States already banned the use and
sale of mercury vamps for lighting purposes. However, there It is not sure if MV lamps were
Mercury Vapor Lamps are also other non-lighting uses of MV lamps (UV lighting). In extensively used in the local
fact, in the Philippines, there are few selling MV lamps for lighting industry.
aquarium or terrarium lighting (UVB lighting for animals).

Somehow yes. As of now, there is no big news regarding


totally phasing out MH lamps, but in the US, there are already
Metal Halide Lamps regulations that regulate the efficiency of commercially
available MH lamps. Soon, these lamps will be completely
phased out.

No, only few. In US, there is no massive phasing out of HPS or


There is no enough data that
SON lamps but low efficiency HPS lamps are already being
High-Pressure Sodium Lamps shows if HPS lamps were
discontinued by manufacturers. However, with the decreased
(SON Lamps) extensively used locally
demand, it is more likely that manufacture of SON lamps will
(especially in street lighting).
be discontinued over LED-based lighting.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)


ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LAMP SHAPES AND SIZES
TYPES OF LAMPS BASED ON LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION DIRECTIONAL
• Before, the shape of a lamp can determine the type of lighting technology it utilize. LAMPS
OMNIDIRECTIONAL
Today, several lamp shapes are now available in different lighting technology (i.e. T12 LAMPS
LED that can replace T12 fluorescent lamps). However, certain lighting fixtures or
luminaires only work with certain lamp shapes. Lamp shapes/type can be categorized
according to how it supply light into omnidirectional lamps and directional lamps.
• Omnidirectional lamps emit light in every direction. To control the direction and
distribution of the light, lighting fixtures and accessories are used. Common
omnidirectional lamps are in the shape A (arbitrary), B (blunt-tip or bullet), C
(cone shaped), F (flame shaped), G (globe), P and PS (pear shaped) and T
(tubular).
• Directional lamps have a built-in reflector or lens on each bulb. The control of the
direction or distribution is primarily by the lamp itself, but additional controls if
attached in a housing or fixtures. These types of lamps include shape R (reflector),
PAR (parabolic aluminized reflector), MR (multi-reflector) and AR (aluminum
reflector).
DESIGNATION OF LAMP SHAPES
• The shape/size of a bulb is usually designated by a code. The most common and
widely popular shape is actually A19 bulbs. The diameter designation is can be in
English or Metric, A19 bulbs (19/8 inches) is A60 (60mm) in metric designation.
However, note that English designation is more popularly used (or at least locally).
• Some shapes are more used in one type of lamp than the other. For example,
fluorescent lamps are usually designated in tubular codes.
• ANSI and IEC have standards/specifications for the shapes of these bulbs.
COMMONLY USED TYPES
• A series (arbitrary) – standard shape of household light bulbs. A-shaped bulbs have
been historically used for incandescent bulbs but the newer types of lamps (LEDs and
CFLs) are also available in this shape.
• B and C series – also known as “candelabra light bulbs”. These shapes are common in
chandeliers, night lights and lower wattage applications such as holiday string lights.
• PAR series (parabolic aluminized reflective) – bulbs that utilize a parabolic mirror or
reflective surface to focus the light (usually used for spot or flood lamps). Common
PAR lamps include PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, and PAR42 but other sizes exist.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LAMP SHAPES AND SIZES
OMNIDIRECTIONAL LAMPS
• Omnidirectional bulbs give off light in all directions – top, sides and bottom.
These are ideal for floor lamps, table lamps, wall sconces and chandeliers. Some
types of lamps are omnidirectional by design like incandescent lamps.
• Some types of omnidirectional bulbs are integrated into a housing with
reflectors to convert it to directional lamp fixtures.
• One source listed omnidirectional lamp types – A, BT, P, PS, S and T lamps. So PARTS OF LIGHT BEAM FROM A LIGHTING FIXTURES
this means the tubular T5 or T8 are considered omnidirectional. Take note of the term “spill light” on the field angle.

DIRECTIONAL LAMPS
• Directional lamps (AR, MR, PAR, R) produce a cone or beam of light where the
center is logically the brightest (100% light). According to one source, direction
lamps are where 80% of light output is falling within the 120-degree cone. Beam
angle is the angle where light is 50% and above and usually designated or
specified by the manufacturer to help designers. Field angle is the wider
angle where the light goes from 100% to 10% and usually not specified by the
manufacturer.
• Directional lamps are usually used for task lighting, display lighting, pendant
lights, ceiling fan lights or ceiling lights. TYPES OF LAMP BASED ON HOW LIGHT IS
DISTRIBUTED
• One source listed lamp types that are directional – BR, ER, K, MR16, PAR16,
PAR20, PAR30, PAR30LN and PAR 38.
OMNIDIRECTIONAL VS DIRECTIONAL LAMPS
• NOTE: It is difficult to find a standard basis regarding the specific angles of light
to be considered omnidirectional or directional.

LAMP SIZE DESIGNATION FOR FLUORESCENT LAMPS THESE ARE USUALLY THE SHAPES OF HID LAMPS
Take note: Iba-iba yung available ng bases for Take note: I’m not sure why it is separate. Pero siguro it
fluorescent lamps. May contact base, may single pin, shows na ito yung pinakacommon na shapes ng mga HID
may 2-pin. Sa CFLs, 2-pin, 4-pin or screw-in lang ata ang lamps. Take note also, yung T12 sa fluorescent lamps ay
DIRECTIONAL VS OMNIDIRECTIONAL LAMPS meron. iba ang shape sa T12 na HID lamps.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
LAMP BASES
TYPES OF LAMPS BASED ON LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
• Before, the shape of a lamp can determine the type of lighting technology it
utilize. Today, several lamp shapes are now available in different lighting
technology (i.e. T12 LED that can replace T12 fluorescent lamps). However,
certain lighting fixtures or luminaires only work with certain lamp shapes. Lamp
shapes/type can be categorized according to how it supply light into
omnidirectional lamps and directional lamps. COMMON BASES FOR HID LAMPS
• Omnidirectional lamps emit light in every direction. To control the direction
and distribution of the light, lighting fixtures and accessories are used. Common
omnidirectional lamps are in the shape A (arbitrary), B (blunt-tip or bullet), C
(cone shaped), F (flame shaped), G (globe), P and PS (pear shaped) and T
(tubular).
• Directional lamps have a built-in reflector or lens on each bulb. The control
of the direction or distribution is primarily by the lamp itself, but additional
controls if attached in a housing or fixtures. These types of lamps include shape
R (reflector), PAR (parabolic aluminized reflector), MR (multi-reflector) and GENERAL LAMP BASES
AR (aluminum reflector).
DESIGNATION OF LAMP SHAPES COMMON BASES FOR FLUORESCENT LAMPS
• The shape/size of a bulb is usually designated by a code. The most common and
widely popular shape is actually A19 bulbs. The diameter designation is can be
in English or Metric, A19 bulbs (19/8 inches) is A60 (60mm) in metric designation.
However, note that English designation is more popularly used (or at least
locally).
• Some shapes are more used in one type of lamp than the other. For example,
fluorescent lamps are usually designated in tubular codes.
• ANSI and IEC have standards/specifications for the shapes of these bulbs.
COMMONLY USED TYPES
• A series (arbitrary) – standard shape of household light bulbs. A-shaped bulbs
have been historically used for incandescent bulbs but the newer types of lamps
(LEDs and CFLs) are also available in this shape.
• B and C series – also known as “candelabra light bulbs”. These shapes are
common in chandeliers, night lights and lower wattage applications such as
holiday string lights.
• PAR series (parabolic aluminized reflective) – bulbs that utilize a parabolic mirror
or reflective surface to focus the light (usually used for spot or flood lamps).
Common PAR lamps include PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, and PAR42 but other sizes
COMMON BASES FOR INCANDESCENT AND HALOGEN LAMPS COMMON BASES FOR CFLs
exist.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
TYPES OF BULB BASES
• The shape/size of a bulb is usually designated by a code
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
NAMING OF LAMPS
• Incandescent or Halogen Lamps – usually described by their wattage,
shape and sizes.
• 100A19/CL – 100 watts, A shape, 19/8” diameter, clear light
• 60G40/W – 60 watts, G shape, 40 (diameter?), white
• 100PAR38/FL35 – 100 watts, PAR shape, 38 (diameter), 35deg
beam angle
• In several times, additional information are added by the SAMPLE PRODUCT NAME FOR XENON LAMP
manufacturer like the manufacturer’s code, class filament, Look at the printed specs on the base of the lamp.
maximum overall length (MOL), MBCP or middle beal
candlepower, lumens produced by the lamp, rated life and
color temperature.
• Fluorescent Lamps – usually designated by “F” followed by the wattage,
shape and size. In some cases, CRI and color temperature are usually
added at the end. Some manufacturers also have additional tagging like
“ECO”, “ALTO” or “SPX”.
• F32T8/830 – fluorescent lamp, 32 watts, T8 shape, “8-30” means
the CRI is in 80s, and color temperature is in 3000K.
• HID Lamps – usually follow a different nomenclature that is not easy to
read. The first character usually identifies the lamp type:
• “B” for self-ballasted mercury lamps, “C” for ceramic metal halide
lamps, “H” for mercury lamps, “L” for low-pressure sodium lamps,
“M” for quartz metal halide lamps, “S” for high-pressure sodium.
• The final character usually identifies the luminaire characteristics
– “E” means enclosed, “F” means enclosed with UV barrier, “O”
means open luminaire, “S” means open luminaire but only in
certain angle.
• Additional information are also given, without particular standard.
• LED Lamps – since LEDs are new, there is still no established standard SOME TABLES FOUND IN A PRODUCT CATALOG OF A LIGHTING MANUFACTURER
for specifying LED lamps but like fluorescent and HID lamps, CRI and Each manufacturer has their own codes integrated to their product naming.
color temperature are indicated. In terms of color, LED technology
improvement is moving very fast, so it is hard to establish naming
standards when newer improved products replace older LEDs.
SAMPLE PRODUCT NAME A METAL HALIDE LAMP
Product name is usually printed on the bulb itself.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN LOCAL CONTEXT

BALLAST EFFICACY FACTOR


This is required for all lamps that require ballasts like fluorescent
lamps and HID lamps. Although I’m not sure if HID lamps are even
that common in the Philippines, probably for floodlamps. Ballasts
that consume 30% of energy consumption of the lighting fixture is
considered inefficient.

EFFICACY LABEL FOR COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMPS


Take note, efficacy is the parameter used, not efficiency.

EFFICACY LABEL FOR CIRCULAR FLUORESCENT LAMPS

EFFICACY LABEL FOR LINEAR FLUORESCENT LAMPS SOURCE:


Take note that while linear fluorescents are not yet banned, the government https://www.doe.gov.ph/consumer-
already set a minimum efficacy for linear fluorescent lamps to 75 lumens per watt. connect/lighting-and-appliance-labelling-
standard?ckattempt=1
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
ELECTRICAL LIGHTING MATERIALS
OTHER TYPES
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
QUALITIES OF LIGHT SOURCES SPECTRUM OF DIFFERENT
TYPES OF LAMPS
As you can see, there are

COLOR TEMPERATURE different spectrum levels for


each type of lamp. If you look
at HID lamps, yellow yung
• There are two aspects of color and light in lighting design – tints of white light and pinakapeak na wave. Sa
spectral colors or “colored lights”. Although colored lights are not popular in flourescent is blue. Sa warm
architectural lighting before, it is not used for lighting interiors and exteriors of white LED is red. Medyo
buildings. mahirap intindihin pero just
try to be familiar with the
• Color Temperature (CT) – the technical term that refers to thermal quality of a light concept. REMEMBER NA FOR A
source, which is more popularly represented by “warm white and cool white” but CERTAIN COLOR
specifically measured in terms of “K”. It is based on the incandescent of a blackbody TEMPERATURE, MAY CERTAIN
radiator. COLORS NA NANGINGIBABAW
AND MAKIKITA YUN USING
• The standard point of reference of the color of incandescence is the “blackbody
THE SPD CURVE OF A GIVEN
radiator” which is a theoretical material that perfectly absorbs all LIGHT SOURCE.
electromagnetic energy that strikes it. If a blackbody is heated, it radiates different
wavelengths of energy (including visible light) depending on the temperature
(reddish to bluish means low to high energy or temperature).
• Spectral Power Distribution (SPD) Curve – plot of a light source’s radiant power at
each wavelength of light. To understand, first remember that when an incandescent
material (i.e. filament in a incandescent lamp) is heated to a certain temperature it SPD CURVE OF A BLACKBODY RADIATOR
emits radiant energy in different wavelengths and among these, there is a peak This is the reference graph where we can see why 3000K
wavelength which overpowers the other visible wavelengths. For example, when is reddish and 6000K is white or bluish. The non-colored
heated in 3000K, a blackbody emits more reddish visible light. When heated to 6000K, portions of the graph are the invisible radiant energy
blackbody emits more white visible energy. An emission of incandescent lamp is the from a light source like UV and infrared.
closest to a blackbody radiator.
• As one source say, spectral power distribution is the building block of
color consideration and it helps determine how the light source appears
and how object colors are rendered under that light source.
• Another explanation – the visible white light that we see is made of a
spectrum of various colors of light from 380nm wavelength (violet) to
760nm (red). The SPD is graph shows the power (strength) of each
wavelength of visible light produced by a light source.
DIFFERENT SPD CURVES OF
• Note: SPD graphs or curve are used in several applications in lighting DIFFERENT TYPES OF LAMPS
industry including the describing the color rendering capacity (CRI) of a From each graph, you can see
light source. As more wavelengths of light are represented by a light source, which color temperature is more
the better the color rendering properties of the light source. That is why the prominent. Take note of the
best color rendering is daylight, as seen in its even, flat or well-curved daylight (D65), it’s a theoretical
illuminant simulating daylight in a
SPD. Incandescent has a good distribution of visible light so it is considered clear noon. The ideal SPD for
as a lamp with a good color rendering index (CRI), usually of 100. color rendering is when the curve
• Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) – is the color temperature that describes non- is smooth (without spikes) and
incandescent lamps like fluorescent, HID, LED, OLED, plasma and induction lamps. evenly distributed. That is why,
other than incandescent and
Take note that CCT and CT are usually interchangeable in practical lighting design.
daylight, other light sources have
• The standard color temperature of our lighting usually ranges from 2,500K (warm) to poor CRI.
over 6,000K (white).
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
QUALITIES OF LIGHT SOURCES
COLOR TEMPERATURE
SOME NOTES ABOUT COLOR TEMPERATURE OF LIGHTS
• “Warm white” or “soft white” – considered comfortable and homey
(good for residential use). This kind of lighting can also emphasize brown
woods or warm colors like red, gold and orange.
• Warmer whites are inviting and their softness invites relaxation which is
why they more suitable for bedroom and living rooms. In kitchens, warm
and cool white lights can be combined for cozy kitchen area and for the
detail oriented workspaces in the kitchen.

• “Cool white” or “bright white” – a cool and vibrant lighting typically


produced by fluorescent lamps. This lighting is usually used in business
environments because it is appropriate for light reading and other detail
oriented task work. It can complement or highlight other colors such as
blue, green or white and even neutral gray, silver or stainless steel. REFERENCE COLOR TEMPERATURE
• Cool white and daylight lighting are usually used in school hallways and Just be familiar with which temperature is warm white, neutral, cool or daylight is assigned to.
hospitals. This can promote alertness and calm.

• “Daylight” – stark white or bluish appearing lighting that can be used for
security lighting, displaying artwork or as commercial applications.
• Reading lights are usually daylight temperature, because this color
provides great contrast between black type on white or off-white paper.
• For women, daylight lighting in bathrooms are better for make-up since it
is easier to see what their make-up look outdoors.

• Some studies showed that cool white and daylight are suitable for
bedrooms because the blue light from the lamp helps waking up in the
morning. However, some studies showed that blue light in the bedroom
can also affect sleep cycles.
• Some advices for residential spaces, warm light for majority of the spaces
and cool or daylight for spaces that needs attention to fine detail (desks,
bathrooms, garages, offices, kitchens, workshops, bathrooms and DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS OF COLOR TEMPERATURE
focused task lighting). However, with the advent of LED lights, “color Take note, medyo confusing ito kapag naicompare with color rendering index. In terms of color
tuning” is possible. rendering index kasi, highest ang incandescent (100) pero yung warm white is not recommended for
task or general lighting. Basta when it comes to display or retail, the most important is color rendering
index. But if in terms of task lighting, cool or daylight lighting is more appropriate.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
QUALITIES OF LIGHT SOURCES
COLOR APPEARANCE
• While related to color temperature, the color appearance of a light source CCT OF LAMPS
can be separate quality to study. The complete study of the color As you see, the dashed
line is where the color
appearance of the light source is quite complicated and involves the color temperatures of lamps
science. For simpler explanation, color appearance is basically how we fall (2500K to 6000K).
perceive the color of a light source through the photoreceptors in our
eyes. This is more of a qualitative property than a quantitative one.
• Perceiving the color of a light source can be through the use of SPD graph
or the chromacity graph. The chromacity graph is a general graph used in
several aspects of color perception, not only in lighting. It is a graph that
shows all possible colors (like other color models). However, in architectural
lighting, the chromacity diagram is used to see how different colors of
light can be mixed together to form other colors.

WHAT IS CHROMACITY?
• Chromacity - an objective specification of the quality of color regardless
of its luminance which consists two parameters – hue and colorfulness (or
saturation, chroma, intencity or excitation purity). The topic of chromacity is
highly scientific and involves fairly complicated color science. However, in
terms of lighting, chromacity is just another way to describe the
perceived color of a light source based on chromacity graph. Chromacity
is also used to measure color difference or color shift of light sources.
• The famous standard chromacity diagrams are named as “CIE 1931 xy
chromacity diagram” and “CIE 1976 LUV chromacity diagram” (which
considered the perceptual uniformity).
• Take note: The concept of chromacity is actually more applied in non-
architectural lighting such as the production of colors in TV, monitors and LIGHT METERS
There several models of light meters
other light sources. With the advent of LED, it is more likely that
but it can also measure CT, illuminance
experimentation of colored lights in architectural application will be and the chromacity of the light source
observed soon. (usually giving the chromacity
• In architectural lighting, the colors of lights are usually limited to the a line coordinates or X-Y)
or portion in a chromacity diagram (as shown in the light meter graph).

CHROMACITY DIAGRAM
Just be familiar of the concept.
Remember that chromacity
diagram is applicable in lights.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
QUALITIES OF LIGHT SOURCES

COLOR RENDERING
• Different types of light sources can render colors in different
ways. This quality is called the color rendering property or
color rendition of a light source. Unlike other properties of
light such as intensity, color rendering property is somehow • The CIE Test-Color Method utilizes 8 standard color samples with
comparative in nature. moderate lightness and of approximately equal difference in hue
WHAT IS COLOR RENDERING? (mostly pastel colors) and 6 special color samples. Using
• In more technical terms, color rendition refers to the mathematical method, light sources are scored from 0-100 for its
interaction of a light source’s spectral power average fidelity (CRI) where a score of 100 indicates that the
distribution and the spectral reflectance function of subject light source renders colors in a manner identical to the
objects, which is a principal factor in determining how reference light source.
objects will appear (illuminance level, adaptation, • A CRI score of 70s were widely considered as acceptable for interior
surrounding conditions and other factors also play a role). application while 80s – 90s are excellent.
To be able to understand this, you must remember that • There are two reference light sources used in this method – the
COLOR RENDERING INDEX
objects does not actually have colors but only appear blackbody radiator for color temperature less than 5000K and
COMPARISON
colored because of the visible light that they reflect (a the daylight for color temperatures 5000K and higher.
black object does not reflect any visible light so it looks • IMPORTANT: Using the average fidelity (CRI) for the scoring in this
method is proven to be inaccurate which means not all light
black). Since objects reflect some or all visible light touching
sources with equal CRI scores render the a color the same way. This
it for us to perceive its colors, any variations of the visible
is why there have been attempts to replace this method for more
light from the light source affect how the colors of the accurate color rendering index.
objects are perceived. • Color Rendering Index of light sources is important in architectural
• The main driver of the color rendering property of any lighting especially in spaces where color reception is critical such
light source is its spectral power distribution which was as retail stores, showrooms, display rooms, restaurants, and lobbies.
already discussed under color temperature. In simpler • CRI was first introduced in 1965 and even though it is widely used,
sense, if all portions of visual light spectrum are equally there are obvious issues with its accuracy. There were already
emitted from a light source, the colors of the object will be other developed alternatives to replace the outdated CRI method
rendered the best. This theoretical “best color rendering including the new “TM-30” which is a method developed the
property” can only be achieved using a “blackbody Illuminating Engineering Society (IES).
radiator”. The closest practical light sources are the • Take note: Color Rendering is a broad topic and it involves other aspecs
daylight and incandescent lamps. such as color fidelity and color preference which is no longer a basic
information.
• IMPORTANT: In a very simple definition, color rendering KRUITHOF CURVE
OTHER COLOR RENDERING INDEX
property is the measure of how well a light source A diagram showing the
• Color Quality Scale (CQS) – another alternative method that uses
renders object’s colors as compared to a reference relationship between
color infidelity and color preference and it also uses more color
illuminant (which is usually daylight or a blackbody radiator). samples in total. color temperature and
• Television Lighting Consistency Index (TLCI) – a in-standard index the illuminance of a
THE COLOR RENDERING INDEX which is used to measuring the color rendering attributes of a light light source. The
• There are several metrics developed to measure this source considering how camera captures colors. This index is pleastant zone is the
property of a light source but the most popular and widely intended for photography. perfect combination of
used metric is the “CIE Test-Color Method” commonly • TM-30 – a relatively new method to analyze the color rendering illuminance and color
referred to as “Color Rendering Index or CRI” which abilities of a light source. It is more accurate than the CRI method DIFFERENT CRI REQUIREMENTS temperature for human
measures only the average fidelity or how similar a light because it has other improved parameters and considers more color FOR TYPES OF SPACES observers.
source renders colors compared to a reference source. samples as compared to the CRI method.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
QUALITIES OF LIGHT SOURCES SUBTRACTIVE MIXING
Take a look at how blue
light is produced from
white light source.
OTHER COLOR QUALITIES OF LIGHT
• Color Constancy or Chromatic Adaptation – is the perception of objects as having the
same color under differing lighting conditions. This is an evolutionary capabilities of NEON LIGHTS
human vision where you can still see if a fruit is ripe under full sun, under a cloudy sky, Remember, neon lights are
under a tree or in a supermarket. cold-cathode fluorescet
• Color Mixing – the production of any colored light is basically by mixing different colored lamps. Basically the gas inside
lights together (very similar to pigment color mixing). the tube is neon which flows
• Note: It is important to remember that color mixing in pigments is different when current passes through.
from light sources. The primary colors in pigment color mixing are Red, Yellow
and Blue (RYB) while in colored light, it is Red, Green and Blue (RGB).
• Note: There are other color systems that use not only 3 primary colors such as
the Pantone system.
• In color theory, hue is the perception of color as red, green or blue (or simply
the color name). Chroma is the saturation of the color. Value is the relative
lightness and darkness of a color which involves tint (added white), tone (added
gray) and shade (added black).
• In pigment, complimentary colors produces black while in light, they produces
white. Adjacent colors are colors next to each other in a color wheel. Warm
colors resemble fire while cool colors resemble ice and water.
• Additive mixing – combining of colored lights to produce a third color. Color
gamut is the range of colors that can be produced from combinations of any 3
colors (such as the color gamut for RGB).
• Subtractive mixing – filtering a light source so a preferred colored will only be COLOR MIXING IN PIGMENT VS IN LIGHT
emitted (i.e. putting a blue filter in a white light souce will produce blue light). Take note that CMYK is related more to color mixing in light.
• There are different types of lamps that can produce different colors of light:
• Fluorescent Lamps – also available in RGB. Colored lights are achieved using
different mixtures of phosphors coating in the tube.
• Cold Cathode Lamps DICHROIC GLASS FILTER
• Neon Lamps – only used for signage because of its low light output. Neon lights You can see the term
are not used for general lighting. “dichroic” in some lamps.
• LED Luminaires – can produce different colored lights because an LED luminaire It usually describes the
can have different LEDs (red LEDs, green LEDs and blue LEDs). This makes type of lens it has.
production of colors easier without any physical changes to the luminaire.
• Color Filters – are filters used for any lamp to filter out the desired colored light.
Some light fixtures have integrated color filters like accent and track lights.
• Plastic Filters – usually thin sheets of polycarbonate or polyester, easy
to use but prone to heat and damages.
COLOR MIXING
• Glass Filters – made from glass so more durable than plastic thin
Take note: Color mixing in
filters. Dichroic glass filters are types of glass filters that both filter a
light is usually done for
certain color and reflect other colors.
stagelighting. And it uses
• Because of the advent of LED and other technology, colored lighting is becoming
luminaires with multiple
increasingly used in many architectural applications.
bulbs with RGBs.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
BASIC COLOR PERCEPTION
• Scientifically, our color perception can be explained by photopic and
scotopic vision. Photopic vision is human eye’s vision under well-lit
conditions (daytime vision) while scotopic vision is under low-light
levels (night vision).
• Color perception is greatest under photopic vision and lowest under
scotopic vision. The cones in the eyes are usually attributed to photopic
vision while the rods are responsible for vision at low-light.
• Under photopic vision, human eyes responds more towards 555nm
visible light, which is in the range of yellow or green.
• Another important phenomenon is that warm colors tend to advance
while cool colors tend to recede. PHOTOPIC AND SCOTOPIC VISION
• Different factors also affect color perceptions such as illuminance or
brightness of an object’s color or of the light source.
• Colors can also have meaning (i.e. purple means royalty, blue
indicates stability, red symbolizes passion).
• Colors can also have connotations (i.e. washing a wall red can indicate
excitement in US, but it connotates communism in Russia or mourning
in South Africa

EFFECT OF COLORS IN PERCEPTION OF INTERIOR SPACES

DIFFERENT EFFECT OF LIGHTING COLOR TEMPERATURE IN SPACES


ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
BASIC COMPONENTS
• Luminaire or lighting fixtures – refer to an assembly of lamp,
reflectors, housing, electrical components and other hardware for
proper installation in the ceiling, floor or wall.
• NOTE: Remember the difference between lamp and luminaire. A lamp or
bulbs is usually a single light-emitting component while luminaires are
assemblies of components. However, when it comes to LED, the term lamp or
luminaire can be confusing because the light component is actually a small
LED chip.
• There is no industry standard for categorizing or organizing luminaires.
These can be categorized by general luminaire type, specific use,
aperture shape/size, mounting method, light distribution pattern
and lamp type.

BASIC COMPONENTS OF A LUMINAIRE


• Housing – functions both as the mounting platform and as a radiator
BASIC PARTS OF A LUMINAIRE
that dissipates heat produced inside the luminaire.
Take note of the flange. The flangeless luminair is a bit confusing.
• Socket – holds the lamp in the correction location and position and also
providing the electrical connection.
• Reflectors – used to control the distribution of light around or above
the lamp through specular, semi-specular and/or diffuse reflection,
prevent glare and can optionally change the color of the reflected light.
• Aperture – opening of the reflector.
• Flange or overlap flange – a ring connected to reflector which
covers the seam between the ceiling material and the fixture
housing. It can be the same color as the reflector or painted
differently. Flangeless fixtures are also available but harder to
install because of the patching compound for the joint between
the ceiling and fixture.
• Lenses, refractors or diffusers – other optional features of a luminaire.
• Louvers or baffles – blade or grid of blades below the lamp for
shielding against direct view to prevent glare. It can be curved or
straight, for different distribution effect.
• Support brackets – different types of bars or clips for attaching the OTHER EXAMPLES OR FORMS OF LUMINAIRES
Different types of luminaires have different parts (i.e. fluorescent lamps and suspended lights).
luminaire to the ceiling or ceiling system.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
COMMON TYPES
TYPES OF LIGHTING FIXTURES
• As to the light distribution – direct, semi-direct, general diffuse, direct-
indirect, semi-indirect, indirect
• As to mounting – surface-mounted, pendant lights, recessed (full or semi-
recessed).

DOWNLIGHT
• Downlight – a luminaire from which the light is directed downward
with direct distribution pattern. It can be recessed, surface-
mounted or pendant, can use any lighting technology and can have TYPES OF LIGHT DISTRIBUTION – based on CIE or
different patterns of light distribution like wide, cone or narrow cone International Commission on Illumination.
of light. A downlight is a very general classification and there can be my • Direct – 100% downward (basically same as downlight)
other types of light fixtures falling under this category. • Semi-direct - >60% downward, <40% upward
• Direct/Indirect – equal distribution upward and downward
RECESSED ADJUSTABLE OR ACCENT • Indirect – 100% upward
• A luminaire that can be considered a variation of a downlight that uses a • Semi-indirect - >60% upward, <40% downward
directional lamp (R, PAR, MR, AR, LED) or a lamp set with an adjustable • Diffuse – 100% all direction (basically same as
omnidirectional). Can be confused with direct/indirect but
reflector (MH or CMH) on a pivoting arm. SYMMETRICAL VS ASYMMETRICAL LIGHT DISTRIBUTION–
the shape of diffuse light is usually global while
• TAKE NOTE: The three terms describe different aspects of a lighting direct/indirect are usually horizontal based on CIE or International Commission on Illumination.
fixture. “Recessed” refers to the recessed mounting, “Adjustable” refers This classification is more on how the beam distribution is
to adjustability of the lamp direction or location and “Accent” means categorized. Asymmetrical distribution is used for avoiding
the light is used to directed towards a highlighted or emphasized glares and wall washing.
object.

SEMI-RECESSED ADJUSTABLE DOWNLIGHT RECESSED ADJUSTABLE DOWNLIGHT


ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
COMMON TYPES
WALL WASHER
• A special form of downlight with fixed angle and direction (usually not directly downward).
It has a special shaped reflector, often paired with a lens, for asymmetric wash of light
towards a wall. Wall washing can be achieved by placing multiple spaced lighting fixtures
WALL GRAZER WALL WASHER
parallel to a wall or using a single linear fixture.
• 1/3 of the ceiling height – general rule on the spacing of wall washers from
each other and from the wall. Some sources say that 2.5-4 feet is the range but WALL WASHER VS WALL GRAZER
3 feet (1m) is the typical spacing.
• Wall washers are used to provide a smooth wall wash without scalloping of the lights. It is
usually used to hide imperfections and eliminate shadows. This works best on light matte
walls (sometime ceilings also).

WALL GRAZER
• A specialty downlight similar to a washer but with different purpose. Wall grazing lights
are placed nearer to the wall (almost vertically orientated) to emphasize the features and
textures of the wall. It can also be used to emphasize polished surfaces because the small
distance from the wall minimizes reflections of the lamp. Like wall washers, wall grazing
WALL WASHER (LINEAR LED AND SINGLE FIXTURE LED)
can be achieved by spaces luminaires or single liner luminaires.
• 12 inches maximum – typical maximum distance from the wall.

TRACK LIGHTING SYSTEM


• Track luminaries or fixtures basically describe more the installment or composition of the
lamp (track and track heads). A track is typically a straight metal channel with internal
wiring usually 2’, 4’ or 8’ in length. These tracks can have different configurations and
installment method – recessed, surface mounted or pendant. The internal composition of
the track can vary between manufacturers and not all track lights are standardized. The
track can be a cable or a rod system.
• Track heads are the components attached to the tracks which can be spotlights, wall
washers or decorative pendants which makes this lighting system flexible.
• There are multiple options for the track heads like a framing projector (as used in WALL GRAZER (LINEAR TYPE) Take note: most of the wall
theatrical lighting) and even wall washers. grazers found online are incorporated in a cove lighting instead
of exposed.

DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS AND TYPES OF TRACK LIGHTS.


As you can see, there are actually three different types of
track lights (H-track, J-track or L-track).

OTHER TYPES OF TRACKHEADS


ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
COMMON TYPES
COVE LIGHTING
• A technique in which a luminaire is set on a shelf, ledge or horizontal alcove
below the ceiling, Light from the luminaire is reflected off the ceiling and into the
space below.
• A cove lighting can be a decorative element only or a major contributor for the
ambient lighting.

INSTALLATION OF COVE LIGHTING


• Cove lighting usually use linear lighting. The simplest cove light source is a
fluorescent strip or LED strip. There are usually minimum dimensions of a ceiling
cove.
• Lip to Ceiling Opening – 12” or 1 foot minimum
• Center of Lamp to Wall – 5” minimum
• Center of Lamp to Lip – 2” minimum
• The lip shall align with the top of the lamp and paint inside the cove as
matte white or the color of the ceiling.
• Socket shadows on the cove lighting can be addressed by staggering the layout
of each cove luminaires.
• Some cove luminaries have asymmetric reflector available in fluorescent lamps
or LED lamps.

DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS AND TYPES OF TRACK LIGHTS.


As you can see, there are actually three different types of
track lights (H-track, J-track or L-track).
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
COMMON TYPES STRIPLIGHTS FOR THEATRICAL
THEATRICAL LIGHTING PAR LIGHTS FOR THEATRICAL
• Specialty lighting used in theatrical applications. The two most common types used for
this application are ceramic metal halide (CMH) and LED lamps.
• Ellipsoidal Reflector Spotlight – dual lensed luminaires for careful beam shaping and
edge softness adjustment. It uses the shape of the reflectors, shutters at the gate
(opening) of the spotlight and adjustment of the lenses to sharpen or soften the beam
edge.
• PAR (usually PAR 56 and PAR 64) – larger versions PAR lamps used for theatricals. These
can be available in HID or LED.
• Striplight – compartmented or multi-circuited unit for a linear wash of light (as linear wall
washer light).

LUMINAIRE ACCESSORIES
• There are different accessories that can be added to lamps for control and improvement
of the light they produce. It includes:
• Mounting accessories which depend if the luminaire is recessed, semi-
recessed, surface-mounted or pendant. ELLIPSOIDAL REFLECTOR SPOTLIGHTS FOR THEATRICAL
• Lenses can be used to soften the beam or spread the beams linearly.
• Filters for color are also available.
• Louvers or Barndoor

OUTDOOR LUMINAIRES
• While discussions on interior luminaires also apply to outdoor luminaires, the latter has
code standards for water intrusion and dirt or insects which is the Ingress Protection
Rating (IP Rating). This is usually followed by two digits and can be read using the tables
for both the digits.

• Cutsheets, specifications sheets or specs sheets – documents prepared by the


luminaire manufacturer which lists all necessary information regarding a luminaire.

OUTDOOR LUMINAIRES
The IP Code, or Ingress Protection Code,
IEC standard 60529, sometimes interpreted
as International Protection Code, classifies
and rates the degree of protection
provided by mechanical casings and
electrical enclosures against intrusion,
DIFFERENT TYPES OF LUMINAIRE ACCESSORIES
IP PROTECTION RATING dust, accidental contact, and water. Example: Lamp holders, sockets, mounting accessories etc.
Some sources say it’s International Protection Rating.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
OTHER PRACTICAL INFORMATION
SAMPLE OF UNDERCABINET LIGHTING

DIFFERENT FORMS OF WALL SCONCE


Remember: A wall sconce is wall lighting
SAMPLE OF CHANDELIER LIGHTING fixture and are usually directed
A chandelier is a branched ornamental light fixture designed to be mounted on ceilings or
upwards. Take note: In modern usage,
walls. Chandeliers are often ornate, and normally use incandescent light bulbs, though some BILLIARD LAMP
wall sconce and a wall fixture are used
modern designs also use fluorescent lamps and recently LEDs. Basically look like a track lighting. It’s basically just a lamp for
interchangeably.
billiard table and it comes in different forms but usually tree
lamps mounted on a pendant track.

NIGHT LAMP – USED FOR NIGHT OBVIOUSLY. Take note: yellowish light
or warm white are the usual colors. Although there are already other color
available now.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING FIXTURES OR LUMINAIRES
COMMON TYPES
CCC
• CCC

OTHER INFOR ABOUT LUMINAIRE TYPES


http://www.rsltg.com/images/Fixtures.pdf
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHT DISTRIBUTION
• Distribution of light from a luminaire is the result of the combination of the fixture’s components
and the lamp. Take note: the lamp is the bulb and the luminaire is the assembly which
includes the lamps, reflectors, housing and other electrical components.
TYPES OF LIGHT BEHAVIOR (Take note: As you see, in Physics, there are other
• Reflection is when light bounces off of the reflective surface. There are three types of reflection:
more specific terms which explains the behavior of light waves. For example,
• Specular reflection (mirror-like) – happens when the surface is very smooth and diffusion is more known as diffraction in physics-related discussion.
reflective. The angle of incidence is equal and opposite to the angle of exitance or
reflection. These include glass, polished stone and polished metal.
• Semi-specular reflection – happens when the surface scatter the reflected light. Some
portions of the light reflect from the surface perfectly while others are partially spread and
diffused, producing hazy reflection images. These include semi-specular reflection brushed
metal, wood with a satin finish and fabric with a sheen.
• Diffused Reflection (matte) – happens when the surface scatter the reflected light in all
directions. It includes flat paint, bond paper, unfinished or sanded wood and unpolished EFFECT OF THE SIZE OF THE LIGHT
stone. SOURCE TO THE TYPE OR CHARACTER
• Refraction is when light bends when passing through another medium. Take note: both OF THE SHADOWS
reflection and refraction happens in other types of waves like sound waves and water waves. This DIFFERENT TYPES OF TRANSMISSION (Take note: I
happens because the wave travels at different speeds when passing different media or material don’t understand why there is an opaque light bulb,
with different refractive index (optical density). because by definition, If it is opaque it shall no transmit
• The Snell’s Law incorporates different parameters like the refractive index, angle of light).
incidence and angle of refraction (both measured from the normal or perpendicular angle.
• Diffusion is when light is scattered in all directions. Diffusion of light can be achieved by diffused
reflection or using a translucent material where when light passes, instead of refracted in a precise
angle, it is refracted in different angles. In lighting fixtures, diffusers are usually translucent
materials attached to the aperture.
• Transmission refers to the passage of light through a medium or material. Here are the related
terms:
• Transmittance – percentage of light being transmitted. This can be categorized into
transparent, translucent or opaque.
• Transparent – virtually allows passing of all light. Objects can be seen through (i.e. clear
glass)
• Translucent – light passes through but scatters the light and blurring the object behind
(i.e. frosted or etched glass, light diffusers). Some translucent can also filter colors in light.
• Opaque – No light passes through (i.e. wood and metal)
• Surface Reflection and Absorption – all surfaces reflect and absorb light at some level.
• Inter-reflection – light bounces off of a room’s surfaces and fills in shadows, reduces
contrast and produces a more uniform brightness. Inter-reflection is increased (brightens
the rooms) if the room surfaces are light-colored and high-reflectance. Dark and low-
reflectance materials absorb much of the incident light produces darker spaces.
• Shadows produced by a light source can be crisp/clear (hard) or softened (soft). This is the result
of the size of the light source. The smaller the light source or luminaire, the harder the
shadows and vice versa. REFLECTANCE AND TRANSMITTANCE
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHT DISTRIBUTION
• Glare is the visual discomfort produced by a lighting system. In other
sources, it is defined as uncomfortable brightness ratios or contrast in the
This is the maximum UGR
field of vision. There are three types of glare – reflected, direct and disability for different tasks or
glare. spaces. Take note of offices
• Reflected Glare (veiling reflections or indirect glare) – occur where UGR of 19 or below
when the viewer sees a light source or brightly illuminated object
is needed.
reflected in a reflective surface. This makes it hard for the
viewer to focus on other objects because brighter objects tend to
affect our vision. This is mainly observed in specular or
glass/mirror like surfaces like windows or tables. This can be
prevented by appropriate placement of luminaires and tracing the
path of reflective lights. Note: Reflected glare usually refers to
This is the discomfort glare formula for a single light source. It was not
reflective surfaces while veiling glare are for matte or dull finishes. explained by Salvan but it is different from the UGR formula, so I don’t think it
• Direct Glare – occur when the object sees the light source or a is relevant.
reflection of the light source directly. This is particularly a
problem when the surrounding have lower brightness than the
light source itself. Luminaire manufacturers introduce cut-off
angle or shielding angle to limit direct viewing of the lamp.
• Cut-off angle – the angle from a fixture’s vertical axis
at which a shielding device cuts off direct view of a
lamp.
• Shielding angle – angle from the ceiling plane to the
line of sight where the lamp in a luminaire becomes
visible.
• Disability Glare – occur when the glare impairs the viewer to see
because the light source is too bright than the surrounding Take note of the 53-degree angle from the
environment. One major example is when a driver is confronted
by a very bright headlight at a dark night. This can be painful and
horizontal where direct glare can occur.
dangerous.
• Take note: There is also what some source call “discomfort glare”
which is a slighter impactful glare than visibility glare because it
only creates discomfort. We can say that discomfort and disability
glare are types of glares based on its effect to the viewer, while
reflected and direct glares are types of glares based on how the
light is seen or viewed.

HOW IS GLARE MEASURED AND AVOIDED?


• The discomfort aspect of glare is qualitative but there is a mathematical
method do determine if a lighting situation can cause either discomfort or
disability glare for the user – the Unified Glare Rating (UGR).
• Unified Glare Rating (UGR) – widely accepted method for measuring direct
discomfort glare, proposed by Sorensen in 1987 and adopted by the TYPES OF GLARE
International Commission on Illumination (CIE) in 1995. The UGR adds up the Better organization of terms. Take note that the
contribution of all glare sources in the visual field, but also considering source
luminance, size, position and background luminance, as well as room size,
discomfort and disability glare are connected.
reflectance factors. The acceptable UGR is between 16 and 28, depending on
the space or task.
• For indirect or reflected glare, it can be avoided by using materials with lower
reflectance (i.e. non-glass) and limiting the luminance of light sources so
discomfort is avoided. CUT-OFF ANGLE AND SHIELDING ANGLE
REFLECTED GLARE AND OFFENDING ZONE
• IMPORTANT NOTE: Glare is obviously related to how light sources are Take note that luminaires utilize these
positioned within the field of vision. There are different sources that suggest Take note that the offending zone is the portion of the ceiling
components to redirect light and to avoid direct
the angle from the field of vision that can cause glare. From Salvan, it is 53 that may cause reflected glare. Also remember of the 20-40
degrees from horizontal on eye level. Larger light source tend to create
view of the lamp which causes glare.
degree from the vertical which is where the optimal angle for
more discomfort that smaller light source which only creates sparkles in the
visual task.
field of vision. Increasing task brightness can reduce glare.
DIRECT VS REFLECTED GLARE
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHT DISTRIBUTION

METHODS FOR EVALUATING PERFORMANCE OF LIGHTING SYSTEMS


• The effect of glare can be affected by the adaptability of vision. For
example, a headlight during a dark night can cause disability glare but
cannot during day.
• Other standard measure for glare is the Visual Comfort Probability
(VCP) which is a percentage of normal-vision observers who will be
comfortable in that specific visual environment (established by IESNA).
• Equivalent Spherical Illumination (ESI) – a method or concept of
glare-system where lighting systems can be compared with. This glare-
free system is made of spherical enclosure. It is a system developed in
1981 Lighting Handbook where it is “used as a tool in determining the
effectiveness of controlling veiling reflections and as part of the
evaluation of lighting systems”.
• A Contrast Rendition Factor (CRF) of 1.00 means that a
subject system gives the same contrast rendition as the
integration sphere.
• The Lighting Effectiveness Factor (LEF) from the ESI measures
the lighting effectiveness of the total system.
• Relative Visual Performance (RVP) – a metric that tests the
effectiveness visual performance of task accomplishment in regard to
speed and accuracy.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHT DISTRIBUTION
CONTROL OF REFLECTED GLARE – there is no standard method to
completely eliminate veiling reflections, but there are ways to minimize
these glares:
• through proper arrangement of source, task and observers
• adjusting brightness
• designing the luminaire or the light source
• changing the task quality

TECHNIQUES
• placement of tasks and luminaires in parallel line of sight but not over
the user.
• the tilt of the desk must be considered, since some visual tasks
needed adjustable and tilted tables
• plan a uniform layout for the lighting and furniture
• adjust the characteristics of the light source like dimming, using
luminaires with lower overall illuminance (luminous ceiling), provide
both primary and secondary light source
• use luminaires with batwing diffusers which has lower light
distribution under the luminaire to reduce direct and reflected glare
• reduce reflectance of walls to 50%, floor to 30% and ceiling 80% to
minimize contrast that can cause direct and reflected glare
• minimize luminance ratio between the task and the surroundings
(although in some cases, to attract attention, high luminance is
utilized for merchandise up to 50:1).
• Bright walls increase the impression of spaciousness.
• Worker-adjustable task lights increase the feeling of comfort and
control.
• Downlights and colored lights increase relaxation and comfort.
• Hidden-source indirect lighting and very-low-brightness luminaires
can cause discomfort because of the inability to locate these light
sources.

VISUAL ACUITY
• The factors that affect visual acuity are the glare, luminance ratios,
brightness patterns and chromacity.
• Visual noise – refers to the disarray of lighting sources which creates
visual clutter and disturbance.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
NATURAL LIGHTING OR DAYLIGHTING
• Daylighting refers to using the sunlight and the natural light from the sky to illuminate
building interiors because artificial lights were dim, dirty and expensive. There are
benefits of daylighting and it include:
• Reduced energy costs – reduction can be up to 35% but not 100% since night-
time lighting is still required.
• Increased occupant satisfaction – because of variations in light intensity, direction
and color which is affected by the weather, time of day and change in seasons.
• Increased worker/student productivity – applied in workspaces and schools and
have been related to reduced absentee rates, increased productivity, reduced
fatigue and improved occupant health.
• Increased sales
• Improved health – hospital patients have been shown to recover faster in rooms
that provide a view to the outside and can even support circadian entrainment.
• Planning and incorporation of daylighting in the building design can be discussed by the
architect, interior designers and lighting designers. Other considerations or steps can be:
• selecting materials and finishes with high reflectance values for maximizing inter-
reflection and helping daylight penetrate deeper into the interior
• lower partitions to avoid blocking or absorbing the daylight
• arrangement of spaces to minimize obstructions to daylight
• The position of the sun is important in considering daylighting. Remember that angle and
intensity of the sun at its highest and lowest angles varies, summer solstice (June 21) and
winter solstice (December 21).
• Take note the angles of the sun’s positions – azimuth angle which is measured clockwise
from North, altitude is the angle from the horizon and zenith angle measured from the
vertical. Sun studies can be done using software and BIM or CAD.
• Building orientation can determine which type of daylight are introduced in the building.
• Glazing refers to the part of the wall, window or skylight that is made of glass or another
light admitting material. These glazing materials are characterized by:
• Visible Light Transmittance (VT or Tvis) is the percentage of light that passes
through it.
• Insulating Properties usually rated as U-factor (lower U-factor, lower conductance
or better insulation)
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) – take note that visible light is 46% of the
energy from direct sunlight, 47% is infrared and 7% is UV regions. SHGC is the
percentage of solar energy passing through a glazing. Some glazing can only
allow visible light while blocking infrared (IR) and UV.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
NATURAL LIGHTING OR DAYLIGHTING
• There are two types of daylighting – toplighting and sidelighting.

• Toplighting – a lighting strategy that uses light from skylights, roof


monitors or clerestories. It is generally the more effective daylighting
solution because it can cover larger spaces evenly and eliminates direct sun
penetration. There are basically two approaches for toplighting:
• Roof monitors and clerestories are parts of the building shape
and may affect its appearance outside. The fall in between
toplighting and sidelighting because they admit natural light from
the top and for the side. There are different roof monitors ROOF MONITORS (Take note of the shape of a roof monitor. It looks like a clerestory
configuration like a “pop-up” roof monitor (which I can’t find window.
online). Or they can be just the same.
• Skylights are apertures in the roof that admit natural light and
may not affect the building shape. It can be dome-shaped or flat.
It can be splayed or not or with/without diffusers at the bottom.
Multiple skylights can be provided for even distribution of natural
lighting, and can cover around 2-6% of the roof area. Standard
maximum spacing for even illumination is 1.5x the height of
the space.
• Light/solar tubes (also known as light pipes, tubular skylights,
sun pipes, sun scopes or daylight pipes) are physical structures
used for transmitting or distributing natural or artificial light for the
purpose of illumination, and are examples of optical waveguides.
The interior of a light tube is usually made of reflective materials
allowing light to bend and reach the interior spaces.
• Some of the components that can be added to skylights or solar SKYLIGHTS (Take note, one major difference of skylights and roof monitors is that
tubes are manual or motorized set of vanes or louvers for skylights follow the shape of the roof)
controlling the distribution or direction of the daylight.

WHAT A SOLAR OR LIGHT TUBE LOOKS LIKE ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS OF LIGHT TUBES (TAKE NOTE: IT’S NOT ALWAYS SMALL TUBES)
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
NATURAL LIGHTING OR DAYLIGHTING
• Sidelighting – a lighting strategy that uses light through
the windows in the wall. It is the most common
daylighting strategy.
TOPLIGHTING VS SIDELIGHTING
LIGHT SHELVES AND WINDOWS
• When sidelighting with window, the general rule of
thumb is that the daylight will penetrate into the room
at a distance 1.5x to 2x the head height of a window.
This can be increased by using a light shelf which is a
horizontal platform that reflects incoming sunlight into
the ceiling which is diffused deeper into the room.
• A light shelf should be highly reflective material to
maximize the redirected light but highly specular
material like mirror or glass can cause glare. Light
shelves can extend outwards to provide shading for
the window.
• Light shelves are typically installed at 7’-6” or more,
so ceiling heights of 9’ or higher are required.
• Tilting the shelf and sloping the ceiling or using
curves surfaces can improve the penetration of
daylight into the room.
• A mirrored louver system (permanent or operable)
can be also be used. MIRRORED LOUVER SYSTEM FOR BOTH
TAKE NOTE OF UNILATERAL
• Splaying windows can also increase the amount of DAYLIGHTING AND SHADING
AND BILATERL SIDELIGHTING
daylighting coming into the interior spaces.

SHADING STRATEGIES
SIDELIGHTING USING WINDOWS
• There shall be balance of daylighting and comfort in an
AND LIGHT SHELVES
interior space. Remember that too much daylight can
cause glare and heat gain.
• There are several shading strategies that can be used
like exterior shelves, shutters and awnings, interior
drapes or blinds and louvers or blinds inside double
glazing systems.
• Exterior shelves are solid, horizontal opaque elements
integral to the architectural components like walls.
• Shutters are systems of framed slats that are angled to
block direct sunlight and with gaps for admitting a
portion of daylight.
• Awnings are typically opaque fabric or aluminum
assemblies attached the building exteriors and usually THIS SHOWS THE DAYLIGHT DISTRIBUTION USING UNILATERAL AND
above windows or openings. BILATERAL SIDELIGHTING (ILLUMINATION GRADIENT) AWNINGS WINDOW SHUTTERS
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
NATURAL LIGHTING OR DAYLIGHTING OTHER INFORMATION
• Daylighting systems or strategies may include or consider:
• Daylight-optimized building footprint (orientation)
• Climate-responsive window-to-wall area ratio
(glazing ratio)
• High-performance glazing
• Daylighting-optimized fenestration design
• Skylights (passive or active)
• Daylight redirection devices (i.e. solar tubes and light
shelves)
• Solar shading devices
• Daylight-optimized interior design (furniture, space
planning and room finishes)
• Daylight Factor (DF) is the ratio of the light level inside a
structure to the light level outside the structure with the
formula DF = (Ei / Eo) x 100% where Ei = interior illuminance
due to daylight at the working plane, Eo = simultaneous
outdoor illuminance on a horizontal plane from an
unobstructed hemisphere of overcast sky. The Ei (interior
luminance) is the sum of the sky component (SC) or direct
light from sky, ERC or externally reflected component of
the daylight and IRC or internall reflected component of
daylight.
• The Daylight Factors are used by lighting designers
to compute if the daylight is enough to perform
tasks under daylighting. This is basically the
Lumen/Zonal Cavity Method but for daylighting.
• The daylight factors is usually used and measured
with complex softwares such as the Radiance
ILLUMINANCE AND DAYLIGHT FACTORS
software and ray tracing.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DOCUMENTATION
TYPES OF LIGHTING DOCUMENTS
REFLECTED CEILING PLAN
• shows that location of the luminaires in the ceiling or even on the walls
• can be considered as a lighting plan
LUMINAIRE CUTSHEETS OR SCHEDULE
• lists the luminaires for a certain area or project

LUMINAIRE SYMBOLS
• The symbols of each luminaire shall represent the general proportions,
orientation shape of surface and pendant mounted luminaires and the
aperture for recessed luminaires.
• Symbols shall be simple and clear mostly using circles, squares and
rectangles and consistent in scale. Smaller apertures can be enlarged
for clarity when printed.
• Downlights – widest range of sizes and options because there are a lot
of types of downlights available. Circular, square or rectangular can be
used in lighting plans.
• Adjustable or Accent – includes track luminaires and generally shows
the direction of the focus using arrowheads, lines or other indicators of
direction.
• Wall Wash – can be symbolized by an arrow or half shaded symbol (the
non-shaded portion indicated the direction of the wall to be washed).
• Continuous Linear Luminaires – can be shown by lines or linear
elements where the size and orientation can also be determined.
• Pendants, Sconces, Floor or Table Lamps – pendant and sconce
luminaires may or may not be shown on the RCP depending on the
complexity of the plan since it may overlap other symbols that are
actually on the ceiling.
• Other symbols like outlets, switches and dimmers can also be included
in the plan.
• For simplifications, luminaires can be tagged using designation and
matrices for guide shall be provided in a lighting plan.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DOCUMENTATION
LIGHTING DESIGN
SPACING CRITERIA FOR LUMINAIRES
• spacing of luminaires is a ratio of the distance from the work plan
(horizontal work plane) to the luminaire and the maximum distance
between luminaires to maintain even illumination on the horizontal
work plane.
• In short, spacing criteria = (height) : (max luminaire distance). Most
of the time, the spacing criteria is given as a number like 1:2 is “2” or
1:1.5 is “1.5”.
• For example, a luminaire has a spacing ratio of 1.5 or 1:1.5. The height
of the ceiling to the work plane is 3 meters, therefore the maximum
spacing of the luminaires in the ceiling is 3x1.5 or 4.5 meters to provide
even illumination. SAMPLE LUMINAIRE LAYOUT AND RENDERING

LAYOUT OF LUMINAIRES
• The most ideal placement for general illumination is grid arrangement,
so it does not attract attention from the users. This can be incorporated
in a ceiling tile grid. SAMPLE OF A LUMINAIRE CUTSHEET
Take note of the usual contents:
• The lighting designer can use the centerlines of architectural elements
• Features
like doors, windows, the room dimensions and among other things to • Applications
determine the gridlines by which the lighting can follow. • Product Code and information like
• Determine the general illumination required for a certain space and voltage, reflector type and color, other
using the spacing criteria of luminaires, the distances of the grid can be options like dimmable ballasts and
used. accessories
• Usually computer generated renderings of the lighting are used to see • Photometric Report showing the
the effect of the luminaire layout and spacing. efficiency and spacing criteria
• Ballast Information
• Zone Lumen Summary
OTHER DOCUMENTS
• Candlepower distribution
• Specifications – text documents for the details and requirements of the • Luminance Data
project. It usually has three types: • Color Multipliers
• General information about the project • Coefficients of Utilization – Zonal Cavity
• Describing the products Method
• Execution by listing delivery and installation requirements • Lamp Characteristics or Light Quality –
CCT or CRI
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING DOCUMENTATION
LIGHTING DESIGN
SAMPLE SECTIONS OF WALL GRAZING
INSTALLATION OF WALL WASHERS
• the preferred installation and spacing for wall washers were already discussed.

INSTALLATION OF WALL GRAZERS


• wall grazers are maximum of 12” from the wall is illuminates and there are usually
installed on the edge or recessed on the cove.

INSTALLATION OF ACCENT LIGHTING


• Accent lights can be recessed, semi-recessed, surface-mounted or pendant, but most SPACING OF WALL WASHERS
of them are adjustable. For accent lighting, the usual guide for the spacing is the Basic spacing idea – equal distance from
viewing angle of the user. The ideal angle of accent luminaire from the wall is wall and from each luminaire.
between 30-45 degrees.

INSTALLATION OF COVE LIGHTING


• Cove lighting usually use linear lighting. The simplest cove light source is a
fluorescent strip or LED strip. There are usually minimum dimensions of a ceiling
cove.
• Lip to Ceiling Opening – 12” or 1 foot minimum
• Center of Lamp to Wall – 5” minimum
• Center of Lamp to Lip – 2” minimum
• The lip shall align with the top of the lamp and paint inside the cove as
matte white or the color of the ceiling.
• Socket shadows on the cove lighting can be addressed by staggering the layout of
each cove luminaires.
• Some cove luminaries have asymmetric reflector available in fluorescent lamps or GUIDE DIAGRAM FOR COVE LIGHTING
LED lamps.

INSTALLATION OF SCALLOP LIGHTING


• Scallop lights are produced when a light is placed close to a wall.
• To determine how a luminaire can produce scalloping in the wall, examine the beam
spread of the luminaire in its cutsheet and place it so the beam can touch the wall.
The side-to-side spacing of the luminaires can be determined by the designer.

INSTALLATION OF LUMINOUS CEILINGS


• Luminous ceilings are made from translucent material with lights behind it. These
are typically used to cover wide spaces and produce even and shadowless PLACEMENT GUIDE OF
illumination. ACCENT LIGHTING GUIDE DIAGRAM FOR
• The typical commercial sizing of luminous ceilings follow the standard 2’ x 2’ or 2’ x 4’ SCALLOP LIGHTING
of ceiling tiles but manufacturers can also make their own sizing.
• The luminaire behind the diffusing material can be spaced like in the shown diagram.
GUIDE DIAGRAM FOR LUMINOUS CEILINGS
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING CONTROLS
• Lighting controls, specifically energy controls, can help reduce the overall energy savings.
The simplest controls are the switches and dimmers.

DIMMERS
• Although too technical, dimmers control the lighting output by modifying the sine wave
cycle of electricity and each type of dimmer does this different. Dimmers must work be
installed properly considering the lamps, ballasts, transformers and power supplies.
• Wall box dimmers – dimmer controls installed in the wall.
• Resistance Dimming – oldest and simplest dimming mechanism. It utilizes a variable RESISTANCE DIMMER
resistor in series with the lighting fixtures and controllable using an arm passing through
coils of wire (resistors). It is considered inefficient due to the generation of considerable FORWARD AND REVERSE PHASE DIMMERS
heat.
• Forward Phase and Reverse Phase Dimming are both related and best explained
together. The mechanism is best explained by looking the wave graph of the electricity
once controlled by these dimmers.
• Forward Phase Dimming – a dimming mechanism where the lighting control
intensity is done by varying the “on” point in each half of the cycle, thus
controlling the amount of power delivered to the lamp. Just remember the
“varying on”. The common types are triac (triode alternating current switch)
or SCR (silicone controlled rectifier). The common disadvantage of this type of
dimmer is the humming or the buzzing sound and potential electro magnetic
interference.
• Reverse Phase Dimming – a dimming mechanism opposite of the forward
phase dimming where lighting control intensity is done by varying the “off” point
in each half of the cycle. These dimmers are usually used for dimming electronic
transformers in low voltage (ELV dimmers), and electronic ballasts in fluorescent
fixtures.
• Sine wave dimming – a dimming mechanism similar to resistance dimming by modifying
the entire electrical sine wave. Advantages include wider application to different devices,
the lack of humming or harmonics. Disadvantage include the higher cost. DIMMING BALLAST FOR FLUORESNCE LAMPS
• Dimming ballasts – component required for linear and compact fluorescent lamps
and usually up to 10% dimmed only since too much dimming is often unnecessary. These
come in different forms and wiring like two-wire ballasts, 3-wire ballasts and 4-wire
ballasts.

OCCUPANCY AND VACANCY SENSORS


• These sensors combine motion detection and switches usually built-in and with adjustable
timer and sensitivity depending on the usage and space. This adjustment per space is
called “commissioning”.
• Passive Infrared (PIR) – sensors that respond to changes in background heat at a
wavelength emitted by humans which operate on line of site (no obstructions).
• Ultrasonic sensors – sensors emitting unheard high frequency sound waves which
bounces off of the objects to sense if the space is empty.
• Other features like manual switching and flashing of the lights before turning off to
alert motionless users are also used.
• Sensors help reduce energy usage in spaces where lights can be left open like store- COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT SENSORS VISUAL SAMPLES OF SENSORS
rooms and bathrooms.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
CONTROL SYSTEM FEATURES
LIGHTING CONTROLS • Advanced programming can be integrated into the
control system. This programming can involved:
CONTROL SYSTEMS • Time of Day Events – using onboard clock to
• For complex applications, complete control systems are usually used where adjust the lighting at the same time every
devices, control software, dimmers, relays, sensors and input are involved. day (i.e. turning off and on of lights are set
There is no universal system, the control system will always depend on what time of each day).
types of lamp or lighting technology are used by the system. • Calendar Events – using of calendar to
• Fixtures controlled are usually grouped into “control zones” which will be the schedule different control presets.
basis of the dimming schedule or zone schedule usually represented in tables. • Astronomical Time Clock Events – using of
• These controls can involve: astronomical time clock with precise control
• Dimming systems – combination of multiple dimmers in a single wall using the buildings latitude and longitude.
mounted panel. • Control of External Devices – controlling
• Presets or scenes – recorded settings of dimmers and switches to other devices not directly connected to
eliminate guessing of the users. lighting like window blinds.
• Multiple dimming systems at each entry point for larger spaces • Input from External Devices
• Photocells can also be used as energy saving component which detect ambient
lights (daylight and electronic lights) for dimming or turning off electrical lights. DOCUMENTING CONTROLS
• Daylight harvesting – term used to describe the use of photocells to • Documents or drawings must show the lighting
adjust the electric lighting in response to daylight entering through controls. For larger facilities, these may require a
windows or skylights. separate drawing sheet.
• Switching – can be shown in the Reflected Ceiling Plan
LARGER CONTROL SYSTEMS by drawing arcs connecting the luminaires to its
• Single larger control systems can be used to control lighting in multiple spaces switch or dimmer. These connections are usually not
like multiple rooms or entire floor of a building. These systems can even expand representing the wiring method but only shows which
in terms of function and can include dimming, switching, raising or lowering of the luminaires are controlled or grouped together.
window blinds, programming, and audio/video systems. • Dimming – For complex control systems and when
• Centralized dimming systems – example of a larger control system where the dimming control is not on the room, tagging or
dimming is controlled in a single cabinet or hardware. numbering the fixtures can help identify which group
• Distributed dimming systems – a larger control system where the dimming are dimmed together.
hardware are spread over two or more locations.
• Example is a digital addressable lighting interface (DALI), a system for COMMISSIONING
power and lighting control used for the ballast of fluorescent lamps. • Commissioning means that the system is inspected
• Digital Multiplex Lighting and Remote Device Management (DMX) – originally for proper connections and operations, especially for
developed for theatrical application. These management systems are basically complicated calibrated components like dimmers and
characterized by complex remotely controlled parameters and configurations. sensors.
• RS232 – data communication standards used in various electronic equipment • The commissioning agents are usually coming from
usually combining controls for AV system and lighting systems. This system can and certified by the control system manufacturer.
be used with Building Management Systems (BMS) like building automation and However, in larger projects, the owner can also hire
control network (BACnet) and also the internet. in-house commissioning agents for the different
building systems of the project (HVAC, electrical and
lighting).
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
PHOTOMETRICS AND CALCULATION
❑ Photometry – the measurement of the intensity of light or of relative
illuminating power. In architectural lighting, photometrics answer the question
“How much light is needed?” or “How much luminaires are to be installed?”.

IMPORTANT RELATED TERMS


• Luminance – light emitted from a light source.
• Illuminance or Illumination – light landing on a surface or the incident light
upon a surface.
• Reflectance – light bouncing off of a surface. All surfaces are reflective to some VISUALIZATION OF LUMINANCE AND ILLUMINANCE
degree. Take note: minsan, pwedeng mapagpalit ang luminance and reflectance.
The lights we see from a light-emitting and light-reflecting surfaces are
basically measured the same using cd/sqm. Yung luminance as defined
UNITS FOR MEASURING LIGHT
by the lighting book is basically the luminous intensity.
• For luminance, lumen (lm), candela (cd) or candlepower (cd) are used.
• Lumen (lm) – usually used to describe light output in all directions
(omnidirectional lamps).
• Candela (cd) – usually used to describe light output in one direction
(directional lamps or luminaires).
• Candlepower – an obsolete term but are still sometimes used.
• For illuminance, foot candle and lux are used.
• Foot candle (fc) – the amount of light landing on 1 foot surface, 1 foot
away from a light source emitting 1 lumen.
• Lux (lx) – the amount of light landing on 1 sq.m. surface, 1 meter away
from a light source emitting 1 lumen.
• For simplified conversion, 1 fc = 10 lx is usually used. The correct
conversion is 1 fc = 10.76 lx.
• For reflectance, foot-lambert (fL) and candela per sq.m. (cd/sqm) are used.
• Foot-lambert (fL) –
• Candela per sqm (cd/sqm) – measurement of luminance in the SI
system.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
PHOTOMETRICS AND CALCULATION
ILLUMINANCE CALCULATIONS
➢ Illuminance calculations are usually simple, using only simple mathematics. In
other complex cases, manufacturer’s provide online calculator or spreadsheet.
Others might use CAD software. Remember that illuminance is the measure of
the intensity of light reaching a surface.

POINT METHOD INVERSE SQUARE LAW APPLIED IN LIGHTING


➢ Also called the “point-to-point method”. It is used for quick calculations of the
amount of light from a single source landing on a specific point.
➢ It uses the inverse square law which states that when the distance between
the light source and the target point doubles, the illumination reduces by
the inverse of the square (or 1/22 or ¼, not ½). Take note: For target points not
perpendicular to the light source, cosine law will be used in the calculations. This
law is also applicable to other waves like radio waves and sound waves.
➢ In this method, there a rule of thumb regarding the maximum size of the light
source or luminaire. The 1/5th rule says that the maximum size of a luminaire
shall be 1/5th of its distance from a target source. This rule is only applicable to
luminaires with aperture not greater than 12”.
➢ Take a look at the formula for the Point Method. Remember, E is the intensity
of the illumination (usually on the level of a workspace illuminated). D is the
distance between the light source and point of calculation. I or cp can be found
on the luminaire’s cutsheet using a table or using the candle power
distribution curve.
➢ For the illuminance calculation at angles not perpendicular to the light source,
cosine law is used. Take at look at the same calculation. SAMPLE ILLUMINANCE CALCULATION USING POINT METHOD

CANDLEPOWER DISTRIBUTION TABLE AND CURVE


Take note, the concentric circles in the curve are the candlepower or
luminance of a luminaire. Take note that since light distribution is
usually symmetrical, it only shows a quadrant. Some semi-direct or
diffused luminaires may show the whole curve. You can see from the
candlepower distribution curve if the luminaire is symmetrical.
Asymmetrical luminaires are usually used for wall washing.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
PHOTOMETRICS AND CALCULATION
ILLUMINANCE CALCULATIONS
LUMEN METHOD or ZONAL CAVITY METHOD
➢ Point method is used for the illumination of a single light source. Lumen method is used for calculating the
average illumination in an entire room that uses a uniformly arranged luminaires.
➢ Lumen method calculates the average illumination on horizontal planes such as the floor or the work plane
using the formula E=LN/A where E is the average illumination in footcandles or lux, L is the lumen output of
the lamp used, N is the number of lamp and A is the area of the space. This formula is not accurate because BASIC LUMEN METHOD
THREE (3) CAVITIES IN A ROOM
it does not involve other factors that affects the illumination – light loss factor (LLF) and coefficient of Take note of the two important
utilization (CU). reduction factors.
➢ Coefficient of Utilization (CU) – a factor multiplied to the standard lumen method formula which accounts
for the fixture efficiency, room surface reflectance, room size and shape and etc., usually found in the
cutsheet of the luminaire. Remember that CU is decimal (less than 1) but manufacturers usually show it as
whole numbers. To get the CU, you have to determine the following parameters:
➢ Ceiling reflectance (%) – depends on the surface material or color
➢ Wall Reflectance (%) – depends on the surface material or color ROOM CAVITY RATIO (RCR)
➢ Floor Reflectance (%) – it is usually assumed to be 20% and is not usually determined.
➢ Room Cavity Ratio (RCR) – there are typically 3 cavities in a room. RCR is used for the room
cavity. Depending on the purpose of calculation or the type of luminaire, there may be no ceiling
or floor cavities (i.e. if illumination on the floor is measured, the plane is on the floor and no floor
cavity). The formula of RCR is RCR = 5h(L+W)/LW. SAMPLE TABLE OF COEFFICIENT OF UTILIZATION
➢ In the table for CU, use the reflectance values and the RCR to get the coefficient of utilization.
➢ Light Loss Factor (LLF) – a factor multiplied to the standard lumen method formula which accounts for the
decreased efficiency of the lighting system overtime as the luminaires and the room age. Note that this is
important because each type of lamp can decrease its lumen output overtime. There are two general
types of LLF that must be considered – recoverable LLF which can be recovered through maintenance and
nonrecoverable LLF which cannot.
➢ Lamp Lumen Depreciation Factor (LLDF) – a recoverable LLF accounting for the gradual
decrease over the lamp’s life, usually a percentage of the lamps initial lumens. It is provided by the
lamp manufacturer.
➢ Luminaire Dirt Depreciation Factor (LDD) – a recoverable LLF accounting for the dirt
accumulation which reduces the effectiveness of reflectors or refractors. It can be computed using TABLES USED FOR THE DIRT DEPRECIATION FACTOR
the tables provided by CIE and LLD-time graph. LLDF TABLE
➢ Lamp Burnout Factor (LBO) – a recoverable LLF accounting for the percentage of the number of
lamps remaining lighted to the total maximum number of burnouts.
➢ Voltage to Luminaire Factor (VF) – a nonrecoverable LLF accounting for the voltage level that can
affect the output of a luminaire.
➢ Ballast factor (BF) – a nonrecoverable LLF accounting for the underdriving or overdriving of the
lamp.
➢ Reflector Factor (RF) – usually not included, a nonrecoverable LLF which account for the type of
reflector used like specular, semi-specular finishes.
➢ FINAL FORMULA – the final formula used in the Lumen Method is given, which now accounts for the
coefficient of utilization and the light loss factors (LLF). The formula can be rearranged to determine the BIM FOR LIGHTING
number of luminaires. There are other software used for this method. In computerized lighting calculations, 3D models are required. IES files which contain the
FINAL FORMULA FOR ILLUMINATION information on the optical performance of a lamp or luminaire are also used.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
PHOTOMETRICS AND CALCULATION
ILLUMINANCE CALCULATIONS
OTHER IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
The standard working plane
height for measuring illumination
(office) is 750 to 850mm.
From Salvan,
750mm for offices and schools
910-960mm for drafting
1060 – 1210mm for shops

SAMPLE LISTS OF LIGHT LOSS FACTOS

STANDARD ILLUMINANCE OR ILLUMINATION LEVELS WORKSHEET FOR THE LUMEN OR ZONAL CAVITY METHOD
Take note this is from IESNA Lighting Handbook and there are different standards or organizations that recommends different levels of
illumination for different tasks. The most important here is that 300-500 lux is recommended for general task lighting
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
BUILDING AND ENERGY CODES SUSTAINABILITY
MODEL CODES ➢ Lighting accounts for around 10% of residential power consumption and 20% of commercial power consumption which is why lighting are a good
➢ Model codes are external codes that are adapted by a city or country, usually developed by option to subject energy reduction policies and methods. This can be done by:
international organizations. These model codes are updated on a regular cycle, typically every 3 ➢ selecting fixtures with good performance and life expectancy
years. ➢ selecting fixtures with higher energy efficiencies
➢ Examples of model codes are the National Electrical Code (created by the National Fire Prevention ➢ analyzing cost considerations because there are cases where the initial cost are offset by maintenance or replacement cost.
Association of NFPA), the International Building Code (IBC), International Green Construction Code ➢ Some of Energy Programs aiming for Sustainable Design
(IgCC), Model Lighting Ordinance (MLO) and Standards for Accessible Design (by Americans with ➢ Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) – voluntary program established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a
Disabilities Act). non-profit organization for sustainability in the built environment. It uses rating systems covering range of building types, existing
➢ International Building Code – developed by the International Code Council (ICC), comprehensive building operations and maintenance and neighborhood development. The scores are categorized into Certified, Certified Silver, Certified
building design codes including use and occupancy, height limitations, fire resistance and Gold and Certified Platinum. There are seven “impact categories” that make up the main framework of the current version, LEED v4.
protection, evacuation, access for persons with disabilities, structural components and even ➢ Reverse contribution to global climate change
➢ Enhance individual human health and well-being
lighting and ventilation.
➢ Protect and restore water resources
➢ International Green Construction Code (IgCC) – developed by the American Institute of
➢ Protect, enhance, and restore biodiversity and ecosystem services
Architects (AIA), ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning
➢ Promote sustainable and regenerative material resources cycles
Engineers), US Green Building Council, IES and maintained by International Code Council (ICC).
➢ Build a greener economy
➢ National Electrical Code (NEC or NFPA 70) – developed by the National Fire Prevention ➢ Enhance social equity, environmental justice, and community quality of life
Association which aims to reduce the worldwide risk of fire and other hazards through codes and ➢ Green Globes – alternative to LEED and developed/administered by Canadian Standards Association and U.S. Green Building Initiative. It
standards, research, training and education. The NEC covers safe electrical standards, installation uses an online assessment tool and point system to assess a project and assigns points based on seven criteria:
and other electrical components. ➢ Energy
➢ Model Lighting Ordinance (MLO) – developed by the International Dark-Sky Association and the ➢ Water
IES. It is intended to address light pollution by providing standards for outdoor lighting (i.e. ➢ Resources
reducing glare, light trespass and skyglow). ➢ Emissions
➢ Light Trespass – light from one property falling onto an adjacent property. ➢ Indoor Environment
➢ Skyglow – light that is emitted upward by luminaires and scattered in the atmosphere, ➢ Project Management
producing a luminous background in the sky which reduces the visibility of the stars. ➢ Site
➢ Standards for Accessible Design – developed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for ➢ Energy Star – a program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency covering products, homes and commercial buildings. It has
providing standards for design of accessible facilities and building components. programs for LED and CFL lamps.
➢ For Energy Star LED:
ENERGY CODES ➢ Correlated color temperature of 2,700K, 3,000K, 3,500K, or 4,000K
➢ There are some energy codes used which is focused on energy efficiency of lighting components. ➢ CRI ≥ 80
One example is the ASHRAE/IESNA 90.1 or ASHRAE 90.1 which sets the minimum energy ➢ Packaging mention if dimmable
efficiency requirements for building envelopes and equipment for HVAC. It is usually complement ➢ Minimum three-year warranty
by the National Electrical Code (NEC). ➢ For Energy Star CFL
➢ Some codes have regulations about the lighting power density (LPD) which means light power ➢ Production of 80 percent of initial lumens at 40 percent of rated life
consumption per building area (watts per area). Each type of building or space has a ➢ A minimum rated life of 6,000 hours
recommended LPD which can be used to calculate the power allowance for lighting. It can use ➢ CRI ≥ 80
building area method where a maximum lighting power allowance is assigned per building type ➢ Ability to start in less than one second, and reach full output in less than three
➢ minutes
or space-by-space method where a maximum lighting power allowance is assigned per space or
➢ ICC 700 National Green Building Standard – developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the International Code
room (not the whole building).
Council (ICC).
➢ Other codes and standards are:
➢ Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – evaluating the financial implications of the building systems (including lighting) which can be categorized into the initial
➢ ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1 Standard for the Design of High-Performance Green cost (i.e. cost of purchase and installment) and the annual costs (i.e. cost of maintenance and replacement). This analysis can get complicated when
Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings considering inflation.
➢ International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) – alternative to ASHRAE 90.1 ➢ Return on Investment (ROI or Payback) – usually considered in renovating or replacing the lighting in an existing space. The ROI is usually related to
➢ California Title 24 the cost of the renovation/replacement.
➢ There are online references for computation of the ROI and Life-Cycle Cost Analysis that can be used by lighting designers.
ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING
LIGHTING EFFECTS ON HEALTH LIGHTING-RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
➢ There have been a lot of studies focusing on how lighting affects health and ➢ Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) – recognized technical authority on
welfare, and this field is already expanding. illumination and founded in 1906.
➢ Biological Rhythms – predictable biological cycles of humans such as the ➢ International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) – founded in 1969
circadian rhythms (sleep cycle) which regulates waking up and sleeping, also ➢ Designers Lighting Forum (DLF)
called internal clock. This internal biological clock is usually synchronized with ➢ International Commission on Illumination (CIE or Commission
the outside world, in a process called “entrainment”. Internationale de l´Eclairage) – founded in 1913 and famous for lighting
➢ In humans eyes, there is a third type of light sensitive cell called the matters like color and vision, photobiology and image technology.
intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell (ipRGC) which is ➢ National Council on Qualifications for the Lighting Professions (NCQLP) –
stimulated by light and signals the body clock and hormone production. Its founded in 1991 for establishing a professional credential for lighting
peak response is in the blue range (between 460 and 480 nm) which is why designers.
bluish lights can cause irregularities in biological clock. This can affect three ➢ International Dark-Sky Association – established in 1988 and focused on
hormones – serotonin which is a mood enhancer, melatonin which makes us preventing and reducing night-time light pollution.
drowsy and slows body functions for sleep and cortisol which is involved in
stress management and blood pressure regulation and sugar metabolism.
➢ There are different therapies that use light for different conditions such as:
➢ Seasonal Affective Disorder – kind of depression caused by
inadequate or ill-timed exposure to light with high blue content and
usually use Light Therapy
➢ Skin Diseases – some chronic skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema
can be treated with ultraviolet B radiation or UV-B producing lamp.
➢ Vitamin D Deficiency – skin produces vitamin D when exposed to
ultraviolet B radiation in sunlight. Reduced exposure can cause
Vitamin D deficiency that can lead to rickets (malformation of bones)
and other diseases.
➢ Full-spectrum Lighting – first used in 1960s by Dr. John Ott for electrical light
source with visible and ultraviolet spectrum similar to natural light. These
types of lights are specialized lamps that can be produced by manufacturers
and claims for better visibility, better color discrimination, reduction of eye
strain, improved mood and improved productivity or claiming as similar to
daylight. These types of lamps are usually above 5000K and the CRI is close to
100.
➢ Excessive exposure to sunlight or UV can cause sunburn and other issues like
skin cancer and eye problems (although many eye issues are age-related).

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