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JU∑. 12
12
10 In Brief: Jellyfish illuminate Vancouver. 11 In Brief: Lumenpulse practices what it preaches.
11
BUZZ
PERSPECTIVES
07 CALiPER Round 14
05 LED Insights
DOE's newest report indicates that retrofit downlights are making strides, but may be a purely transitional technology.
Is what lighting designers really want Whole Foods? By Jim Crockett
48 SSL Observed 08 Art and LED in Miami
12 SSL in Application: Municipal street lighting hitting critical mass.
Focus Lighting adds an interactive art element to the Clark Government Center.
10 A VC Forecast A recent venture capitalist report is bullish on LED, but slows it roll for 2012 expectations.
02 • 06.12 • Architectural SSL
28
Based on the turnout at Lightfair and other recent lighting events, lighting manufacturers appear to be upbeat about the state of things, which could lead to even more events—but is that much value being produced? By Kevin Willmorth
“While not every product needs to be over-thought or evaluated in depth, trusting gut feelings and marketing materials can lead to significant errors in decision making, resulting in longterm cost and expense beyond simplistic initial assumptions."
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10
FEATURES
DESIGN & PRODUCTS
14 Market Setting Feature: The Need for Standards Revisited
38 White Pages
The escalation of compliance testing layered on component testing has produced an exponential increase in product deployment costs, resulting in an increase in complexity that is greater than it needs to be. by Kevin Willmorth
Inside the workings of LM-80 and TM-21.
20 At The Front: SSL and Circadian Rhythms Thanks to developments in solid-state lighting there now exists a whole new capability to dim and “tune” correlated color temperature— commonly called Kelvin changing or shifting. More importantly, this sea change can really improve conditions for people. by Stan Walerczyk
42 Advances OLEDs, drivers, MR16 replacements, light engines, linear pendants, downlights, tunable LED.
Architectural SSL, Vol. 6, No. 3 (ISSN# 1941-8388) is published five times per year by Construction Business Media. Publication Office: Construction Business Media, 579 First Bank Drive, Suite 220, Palatine, IL 60067; 847 359 6493; www.architecturalssl.com. (Copyright © 2012 by Construction Business Media) POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Architectural SSL Magazine, 519 East Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook, IL 60440.
28 Featured Project: The W, San Francisco The operators of the hotel, with a little LED and creative use of wood, were able to give a fresh look to the hotel lobby to help keep it competitive with new players in the downtown hospitality market. by Vilma Barr
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Architectural SSL • 06.12 • 03
Introducing Acrich2 With No AC/DC Driver
• Increased Lifespan • Increased lamp efficiency ( power factor > 0.95 ) • Design Flexibility • Cost reducation in designing and manufacturing light bulbs • Speed time to market
Circle 02
Coµµ§∑T±R∞
LEDInsights
NUMbER 23 • JUNE 2012 www.architecturalssl.com
Gary Redmond
Managing Partner Director Publishing Operations gary@architecturalssl.com ary@architecturalssl.com
Tim Shea
Managing Partner Director Business Development tim@architecturalssl.com
Dave Pape
EDITORIAL Jim Crockett 847 359 6493 Kevin Willmorth Megan Mazzocco 847 359 6493
Vice President Director, Art & Production dave@architecturalssl.com Editorial Director jimc@architecturalssl.com Editor kevin@architecturalssl.com Associate Editor megan@architecturalssl.com
Contributing Editors Vilma Barr Barbara Horwitz-Bennett Ellen Lampert-Greaux Chuck Ross
vilma@architecturalssl.com barbara@architecturalssl.com ellen@architecturalssl.com chuck@architecturalssl.com
Mavis Linnemann
Copy Editor
Fact: Bears Eat Beets; Battlestar Galactica with the audience. Having spoken on the same
Commenting on a commentator, this observer is not so sure fewer LED standards is a good idea. Then again, I don’t think the kinds of guidelines designers really want, exist.
as it’s a subject most people just don’t understand or want to understand. On top of that, I recommended he might be better served simply answering questions and explaining what TM-21 does Dr. J’s ArchLED presentation, which is available
For anyone who doesn’t watch “The Office,” the
under the “University” tab on SSL Interactive:
seemingly nonsensical headline refers to an episode of the show where one less outspoken
Purpose: Provide a calculation tool to interpret
character, “Jim,” pokes the very outspoken char-
the data collected from LM-80 testing; to provide
acter, “Dwight,” by randomly spouting the same
users with lumen maintenance life (e.g., L70)
kind of odd wisdom Dwight likes to impart on the
projection, or to predict estimated lumen output
rest of the staff.
values at a given time duration; to interpolate
I bring up the TV incident because, like my
DESIGN & PRODUCTION Dave Pape Art Director dave@architecturalssl.com
our sometimes adamant in-house guru Kevin
Lauren Lenkowski
ADvERTISING SALES
First, I told him, I think he needs to dumb it down,
and does not do. Here’s a succinct summary from
namesake on the program, I slightly disagree with
Associate Art Director lauren@architecturalssl.com
subject at ArchLED, he asked me my opinion.
lumen maintenance behaviors for the in-situ temperature (different from testing temperature)
Willmorth and his take this month on the state of
What it is not:
standards governing solid-state lighting. As the
• It does not provide performance requirements
cover attests, Kevin, in his Market Setting Feature
• It does not give the criteria if a product is
essay, expounds on why he believes a number of
good or bad
the standards that have been, or are being called
• It only addresses lumen maintenance, not rated
to be implemented, are retarding efforts to bring
life or reliability of the products.
Gary Redmond 847 359 6493 gary@architecturalssl.com
Tim Shea 847 359 6493 tim@architecturalssl.com
real innovation to the SSL marketplace. notes is right on. But being somewhat cynical, I
opinion, what lighting designers and specifiers
Trey Higgens 847 577 8980 trey@architecturalssl.com
Jim Oestmann 847 838 0500 jim@architecturalssl.com
have a hard time buying that the marketplace can
want is Whole Foods. They don’t necessarily want
or will regulate itself. But the thing that jumped
to know how or where the organic food is being
out at me the most in his essay is the “defensive”
grown, they just want to know it’s organic. This is
David Haggett Ted Rzempoluch 847 934 9123 609 361 1733 davidh@architecturalssl.com ted@architecturalssl.com
role he notes most designers rally to in their
a tricky trek, as this is not necessarily what stan-
expectations of what standards should deliver.
dards should do, and as Kevin argues, may lead
In other words, the expectation is that new stan-
to regulation that does hamper product develop-
Jim Führer 503 679 5409 jimf@architecturalssl.com
dards will provide performance metrics, or, even
ment. But who will be Whole Foods? We’ll keep
better, some kind of stamp of good housekeeping.
trying on our end in noting what we, or people we
Bob Fox 203 356 9694 bob@architecturalssl.com
Don’t get me wrong, much of what Kevin
This is not the case, as Kevin points out in SUbSCRIPTION INqUIRIES There is no charge for subscriptions to qualified requestors in the U.S. All other annual subscriptions will be charged $39 for standard delivery or $55 for air mail delivery. For subscriptions, inquiries or address changes, call 630 739 0900 ext. 201. A Publication of Construction Business Media
Member:
the White Pages, where he reviews, in detail,
Circular blend under globe = PMS 3025
Continents, shadow, base = Black
trust, feel are reliable or innovative SSL products. In the interim, as Kevin notes, it will take
exactly what standards, such as LM-80 and TM-21,
a greater effort on the part of designers to
do. This notion was confirmed in a conversation
understand what’s good or bad—that or trust that
at Lightfair with perhaps the industry’s leading
bears, do indeed, eat beets.
expert on LED standards developments, OsramOpto’s Dr. Jianzhong Jiao. On a bus ride from the Las Vegas Convention Center to the Strip, I shared a seat with Dr. J, who was somewhat flustered as he had just finished a session on TM-21 and shared with me a general disconnect he felt
Type and globe=PMS 485
This is the disconnect in a nutshell. In my
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Jim Crockett, editorial director
ArchItEcturAL SSL • 06.12 • 05
Your driver is the heart of your lighting system. So it makes sense to choose one from a name you trust. Introducing the GE Lightech™ LED Driver. Effective, reliable and intelligent, the GE Lightech LED Driver enables you to create nextgeneration LED lighting systems that push the boundaries of performance and redefine efficiency. Visit GELighting.com/Lightech to learn more.
Š GE 2012
Circle 03
SSL BUZZ & i∑DUSTR∞ BRi§FS
cAliP iPer er t testing, esting, round 14 CALiPER ROUND 14: LED RETROFIT DownLIGHTS FILL GAp But FO FOr r hOW lONG?
Retrofit LED Downlight Testing
Color Rendering Index (CRI) vs. Correlated Color Temperature (K)
Color Rendering Index (CRI)
100 95
Series 14 LED Downlight Retrofit Units Previously Tested Integral LED Downlights Previously Tested LED Downlight Retrofit Units
90 85
80
Incandescent Benchmarks Halogen Benchmarks CFL Benchmarks
75 70 65
ENERGY STAR Range, Commercial
60
ENERGY STAR Range, Residential
55 50 2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
4500
Correlated Color Temperature (K)
5000
5500
6000
6500
Source: DOE SSL CALiPER results, DATE 2010
ABOVE: color rendering index (cri) vs. correlated color temperature (cct) for the Series 14 leD downlight retrofit units and several sets of comparison data. the performance of the Series 14 products was very consistent, with a cri just above 80 and a cct of 3000K being representative of most products. the other data sets show more variability.
cAliPer round 14 Downlight Data i∑iti±L outPut [Lµ]
tot±L i∑Put Po∆§R [∆]
§FFiC±Cy [Lµ/∆]
B§±µ ±∑gL§ [D§g]
CRI
R9
CCT [K]
DO§ C±LIP§R ID
11-63
562
14.2
40
96
81
16
3174
11-64
689
10.0
69
74
84
11
3046
11-73
803
14.0
57
89
78
7
3196
11-741
563
13.6
42
93
96
19
3007
11-75
789
14.5
54
100
84
17
3073
11-76
541
13.5
40
88
82
28
3172
11-82
542
11.0
49
75
84
24
3029
11-962,3
591
13.5
44
93
81
31
3083
11-971
527
13.5
39
93
81
18
2925
11-98
587
11.6
50
36
83
27
3006
11-103
769
14.0
55
111
80
12
2762
ABOVE: performance criteria includes initial output, total power input, luminous efficacy, power factor, beam angle, color rendering index, special color rendering index R9, correlated color temperature (CCT), and Duv. The data is the average of two samples, unless otherwise noted.
ABOVE: 1. products are physically the same, but sold by different companies; 2. product is the same model as 08-123; 3. Lumen output and efficacy of the tested samples differed by more than 10%; 4. Listed value is the furthest from zero.
Round 14 of the DOE’s CALiPER testing program, published in March, focused on retrofit downlights, matching up 12 anonymously purchased retrofit luminaires and testing them in a 6-in. insulation contact-rated downlight housing mounted in a 24-in.-x-4-in. insulated enclosure. In general, products performed well, with researchers finding efficacies to be substantially better than incandescent or halogen lamps and equal or better than compact fluorescent options. The 12 retrofit units studied in this round produced between 527 lm and 803 lm, approximately equivalent to the output of a downlight with a single 60w 60w to 100w 100w incandescent or 13w 13w to 32w 32 w CFL lamp—none of the products reached the higher output required in high-ceiling applications. However, researchers did identify a number of products with higher outputs that couldn’t be obtained for this study. Additionally, the average output of Lighting Facts-listed products is 1074, so the report authors believe the broader Le LeD retrofit market can cover the 200 lm to 3,000 lm range of conventional products in this category. efficacy e fficacy for tested Le LeD products ranged from 39 lumens per watt (lm/w) to 69 lm/w, with a mean efficacy of 50 lm/w, similar to products listed by LeD Lighting Facts or previously tested by CALipe CALipe peR. R. This range bested the 25 lm/w to 50 lm/w range of benchmark CFL downlights. Light distribution is another important downlight characteristic, because it influences the quantity and placement of luminaires within a space. The Doe Doe oe’s ’s energy Star program requires listed downlights—including retrofit Le LeD units— to emit at least 75% of total initial lumens in the zero-60-degree zone. All Series 14 products met this target, with only one emitting less than 85% of total lumens within the specified zone. Light-distribution patterns also can cause glare, and luminaires that emit less light between 70 degrees and 90 degrees—as did two of the tested Z
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COnTI TInu nuED nu ED On pAG AGe e 08
ArchitecturA Architectur Al SSL • 06.12 • 07
SSlBuzz: Buzz:
COnTI TInu nuED nu ED FROM pAG AGe e 07
Y
LeD models, may be more comfortable for a space’s occupants. Light distribution also is influenced by any related optics (i.e., lenses), especially important in downlights using omnidirectional lamps. These units tend to have wide beam angles, while fixtures using directional lamps, such as pAR products, tend to have narrower distributions that are more dependent on the lamp itself. Researchers found a limited variation in distribution patterns among the tested Le LeD retrofit kits, and concluded that pAR replacement lamps might be more effective at meeting specific distribution requirements than the retrofit downlight kits. The form factor of replacement units wasn’t a part of Round 14 investigations, but the report notes that individual replacereplace ment products may not be compatible with all installed housings. For example, attachattachment systems vary between manufacturers, as can attachment methods. Additionally, LeD downlight retrofits generally are larger and heavier than equivalent incandescent or CFL trim, thanks to the need for added mass required for adequate thermal manmanagement. The report authors added that the lack of standardization of such terms as “retrofit,” “remodel” and “replacement” can make ordering these products challenging, especially since product literature isn’t always specific about the housings in which a particular product will fit. For example, one “retrofit” product ordered by researchers wasn’t intended to fit inside an existing housing at all, but to use a supplied housing in an existing ceiling hole. Despite overall successful performance, the report states that retrofit products may be filling a transitional niche. Researchers found the performance of retrofit units to be generally similar to Le LeD replacement lamps, and integral Le LeD downlights tend to have a greater range of lumen packages. As a result, investigators said that the long-term future of retrofit offerings is uncertain.•
08 • 06.12 • Architectur ArchitecturA Al SSL
Photo: ivan toth Depeña
LED AND ARt:
reflective Mood FOCUS Lighti LightiN Ng w wAS AS iiNVOLVED NVOLVED iiN N A ONE ONE--OF OF-A AkiND ki ND project in the Stephen p p.. Clark Government Center lobby in Miami, where it was the lighting consultant for “Reflect,” a permanent light-based installation by artist Ivan Toth Depeña. In an effort to engage the public and enliven the lobby, the piece was developed with the use of tracking cameras to allow the dynamic lighting to echo the circulation through this commuters’ hub. In collaboration with the artist, Focus custom designed five 13-ft.-tall Le LeD light boxes throughout the space. Focus also develdeveloped custom software and programmed the light boxes to display abstract reflections of passers-by using data collected from tracking cameras. “w “when
there is no movement within their vicinity, the light boxes replay animations from previously recorded interactions with visitors,” says paul Gregory. “The installation seeks to engage the visitors and promote a sense of community through ‘group interactivity and high-tech playfulness.’” To achieve this, Gregory says the consulconsul tants programmed the boxes to be responsive to multiple factors. “Colors vary by time of day and the scale of the pixels correspond to the visitors’ distance from the box. Despite these abstractions, the visitors’ ‘reflections’ are of accurate scale and proportion so that they can easily recognize the forms as their own.”•
ABOVE: tracking cameras allow the light boxes to dynamically reflect the circulation within the space. A video of the installation is available at http//vimeo.com/34545263
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Circle 04
LED Pendants
LED Lightbar Plus
SSlBuzz: Buzz:
MArke rkeT T in inT TeLL LLigen igenC igen Ce: LLeD eD A Av AvAiLAbiLiTy vA v AiLA LAbi biLLiT y bi
LLeD eD Co C CoSTS oSTS being being Driven Driven Down Down In “A Light Read,” Canaccord Genuity’s LED and Lighting Monthly, by Jonathan Dorsheimer and Josh Baribeau, the authors reflected on the most recent Strategies in Light conference where the economic analysts held an event of their own. The group sponsored an investor forum “chock-full of VCs.” Most of the presentations from the start-ups, according to Canaccord Genuity, focused on incremental improvements at varying levels of the supply chain. These strategies, they note, appeal to VCs due to their capital efficient nature. For example, companies like Xicato and Terralux, they said, are focusing mainly on light engines rather than the entire fixture, which allows more design flexibility and a more universal, potentially upgradable solution. They are also working to solve the LED binning issue, allowing them to use a larger range of die from each run, which could end up leading to significant cost savings. Others, like Nualight, noted the report, are focusing on niche markets where clear value propositions exist today, rather than trying
pubLiC + CuLTurAL: v vA AnCouver Aqu quA Ariu riuM M
Swarm of le leD D Jellyfish? Visitors to the Vancouver Aquarium through January 2012 could participate in Jelly Swarm, a unique light installation by Tangible Intervention in collaboracollaboration with origami artist Joseph Wu, both based in Vancouver. As part of the exhibit, “Luminescence: A Celebration of Aquatic Light,” the 94 folded jellies that filled the ceiling of the Pacific Canada Pavilion were illuminated internally by LEDs and suspended from a reflective aluminum structure. To create the jellies, Tyvek was water jet laser cut into 154 custom triangles and 430 connectors fabricated from 2mm 6061T6 aluminum, anodized on both sides and scored before folding. Aquarium visitors produced color and light patterns by moving a hand across an interface on a plinth-mounted touch screen to make the jellies respond. The jellies were also independently programmed to interact with their closest neighbors to demonstrate luminescence. Lighting design and interactive was produced by a customized Adobe Air 10 • 06.12 • Architectur ArchitecturA Al SSL
ViSitorS mAke the JellieS reSponD in Different colorS AnD pAtternS Simply By moVing their hAnDS AcroSS A plinth. application developed in Flash Builder. An ArtNet library implemented in Actionscript 3.0 sent data through an mbed-based controller to the RGB LED light modules.•
Above: Jelly Swarm was a recent interactive art installation at the Vancouver Aquarium inspired by the luminescent jellies found off the British columbia coast. exhibits demonstrated how aquatic life glows deep beneath the ocean’s surface.
“giVen the feAr of cArrying too much inVentory, the inDuStry hAS leAneD out, creAting perioDS of tightneSS AnD A neeD for ruSh orDerS.” to tackle “general lighting,” which inevitably would pit them against the giants of the industry. Controls, more efficient drivers and even software, and a potential for lighting “apps,” are also garnering increasing focus. These themes were amplified further throughout the rest of the conference. The analysts said market is dictating that costs from every portion of the supply chain have to be addressed, not just LED chip
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performance, and there are an increasing amount of companies rising to the challenge. Additionally, the industry is beginning to work beyond the myopic solutions whereby the entire user experience and the optimization of an LED’s benefits beyond energy efficiency are starting to take hold. Despite the bright prospects of the future, Canaccord Genuity notes it is important to take a step back and examine what is actually happening here in 2012. LED pricing has normalized from the dramatic reductions experienced in 2011, but that still means 20% to 30% ASP erosion should be expected this year. Given the fear of carrying too much inventory, the industry has leaned out, noted the authors, creating periods of tightness, resulting in rush orders. This has been the case in chips, and it is now occurring in sapphire substrates. Whether these anomalies turn into trends is to be seen, but they are incrementally positive given the spate of disappointing results over the past nine months. Entering 2013, Canaccord Genuity believes most applications, excluding lighting, will be saturated, meaning future industry growth will be dependent upon SSL adoption. Lighting, noted the observers, is clearly hitting psychological trigger points in the consumer channel, as evidenced anecdotally by empty shelves at Home Depots in subsidized territories. However, the analysts believe that a larger inflecinflection point in lighting will be deferred to 2013-2014. “It is our view that the industry has to undergo this difficult period to clear out supply chain inefficiencies but more importantly for pricing to come down so that lighting applications can make ecoeconomic sense,” notes the report. “Positively, we are already around halfway through this necessary downturn, and on a relative basis we consider a two-year downturn fairly tame considering the lag between the first cycle and the second cycle was four to five years.”•
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ADA DAp pTive reu euS Se Rapidly expanding LED manufacturer Lumenpulse completed its Montreal headquarters move to a century-old former factory to house 20,000-sq-ft. of offices, as well as an adjoining 45,000-sq.-ft. production facility. The firm, founded in 2006 by president Francois-Xavier-Souvey, now employs 120 engineers, technicians and support staff, and has experienced a 12-month growth of over 100%. To close 2011, the company hosted over 500 guests to an open house. The employee lounge (right) features an overhead fixture illuminated by Lumencove HO clear lens, 12-watt/ft, 3000K, with an 88 CRI rating. Downlights are Lumenbeam 27-watt, 10 degree medium RGB. More recently at Lightfair, Lumenpulse was commended for its Lumenline slim continuous linear LED, providing a 68-lpw, 100,000-hour rated product, dimmable over AC power lines. Also introduced at the show was Lumentalk, a patentpending invention that enables digital control of LED lighting over existing AC power lines. Lumentalk was also among the winners of our recent PIA awards earlier this Spring. It has received the first of seven patents filed for the technology.•
Above: informal dining at the new lumenpulse offices is a well-lit experience. the manufacturer’s products here include two sizes of lumenbeam 27-watt, 3000k 82 cri medium pendant; above the cabinets are lumenfacade ho fixtures, 15.25-watt/ft, 10x60, 2700k, 83 cri; and undercabinet illumination from 12-watt/ft, lumentask ho, 2700k, with an 83 cri rating.
ArchitecturA Architectur Al SSL • 06.12 • 11
SSlBuzz: Buzz: STreeT LighTing: Cri riT TiCAL MASS
leDs hitting the Streets in greater numbers Thanks to government and utility incentives, along with significant operating savings, LED fixtures are becoming common fixtures—pun intended—in roadway and parking lot applications. In many cases, LEDs are replacing high-pressure sodium luminaires, cutting energy use by up to 80%, and the LEDs’ longer life means maintenance crews do a lot less light changing. We’re highlighting just a few of these success stories in this issue’s Buzz coverage. Most of the new products are designed to fit into existing acorn, cobra-head or other traditional form factors, often with optics designed to maximize the directional nature of LED illumination. In some cases, though, manufacturers are opting for new shapes customized to make the most of the new technology’s benefits. For example, Cree’s Aeroblades luminaire, created by London-based
lighting designers Speirs + Major, is built from a scalable system of blade-shaped housings that also serve as heat sinks, so units can be combined in series without added heat worries. Additionally, specifiers can choose from 20 different “NanoOptic” light distributions and a number of color temperature options, adding up to 300 possible assemblies based on simple components. Cree’s approach adds yet another option to a growing market of LED offerings for municipalities
AerobLADeS: cree’s new “Aeroblades” fixture, designed by Speirs + major’s keith Bradshaw, was a big buzz at lightfair. fixtures can be custom configured with a variable number of “blades” dependent on the installation.
is modular. is scalable. is
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SSL MAGAZINE STERNBERG half page vertical ad MARCH 2012_Layout 1 2/21/ µu∑iCiP±Liti§S: C±RPi∑t§Ri±, C±LiF.
Shown: TimberWood® Pronghorn wood light pole and Prairie 1230 luminaire
and facility owners (and their lighting experts). With prices for these efficient, long-lived products beginning to reach parity with more traditional lighting sources, we’re likely to see that market grow even larger in the next few years. In the city of Carpinteria, located along the Central California coastline, the city turned to LED streetlights as it was burning through more than 120,000 kWh annually to light its 199 high pressure sodium (HPS) streetlights up until last November. Switching from the 138watt HPS lamps to 29-watt pendant alternatives from LEDtronics has cut streetlighting energy costs by 80%. The new lamps feature a 3000K color temperature and fit inside the existing globe diffusers without significant modification, and their lifespan is four to five times as long as typical HPS lamps, so maintemaintenance costs will be lower, as well. Additionally, because the new lamps give off very little UV radiation, the polycarbonate diffusers should last longer than with the HPS units. The heat and UV radiation produced by the HPS lamps causes the diffusers to yellow and become brittle. In addition to reducing Carpinteria’s operating budget, the new lamps also will help the small city cut its carbon footprint. The 96,000-kWh reduction in electricity demand will translate into a yearly savings of 33 tons of CO2. LED street lighting is catching on in the center of the country as well. Tulsa, Okla., long a major player in U.S. petroleum markets, turned to a decidedly modern illumination source in a recent streetlighting upgrade project. In restoring the city’s historic Brady district, planners are incorporating 200 decorative downlights from Amerlux in the area immediately surrounding the new Driller Stadium, home to the city’s minor-league baseball team. The new fixtures (the D142 and D154 Series in the Amerlux catalog) are based on Bridgelux ES LED arrays, and their design allows for a variety of optical configurations. Delivering up to 7600 lumens (D142) or 5000 lumens (D154), the two fixture packages also are anticipated to provide significant energy-cost savings to Tulsa, compared to the high intensity discharge streetlights used elsewhere in the city.•
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Circle 06
market
revis sited
marketanalysis
SoLid-StAte LiGHtinG StAndARdS:
By Kevin Willmorth, editor
The escalation of compliance testing layered on component testing has produced an exponential increase in product deployment costs. Altogether, the result is an increase in complexity that is greater than it needs to be.
Editor's Note: In the following piece, Kevin
were considered completely rational. This same
revisits standards and standardization efforts, as
dynamic exists today in the deployment of solid-
he did in early 2011, and expresses his take that,
state lighting.
perhaps, the exertion to tame the Wild West that is SSL may be causing more harm than good.
A Mad and Complex World Escalation in technological depth brings with it an inherent state of knowledge disparity. For
When the automobile emerged, regulatory
customers, this causes confusion and com-
agencies were called upon to control the fright-
plicates evaluation. For manufacturers at all
ening new machines. The initial regulations
levels, the knowledge gap acts as a defensive
included demands for flagmen to precede the
screen. Innovators have secrets and new special
passage of each auto, speed limits that held cars
knowledge that is held closely, blocking competi-
to the same velocity as a trotting horse, restric-
tors from intruding. Demanding full disclosure at
tions on routes and established days of the week
this early stage of development is counter to the
these new contrivances were allowed to operate.
best interests of the innovators facing the threat
In retrospect, this all seems a pathetic lack of
unscrupulous copy-cat producers who tear the
vision. At the time, the restrictions and controls
profit out of products before they mature. In response to the inevitable state of instability innovative cycles create, are customer advocates who act out in defense of stability— demanding the creation of new standards, protocols for new tests to be completed, and
no one can question the need for the continued development of standards for the leD community. that said, sometimes efforts along these lines are more punitive than helpful in allowing product innovation to come to the fore.
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new compliance hoops to be jumped through before a product is considered acceptable for “safe” consumption. While well intended, these new regulations have created conflicts with the dynamics of progress.
Z
nebuLouS outLook
Continued on page 16
architectural SSL • 06.12 • 15
marketanalysis
Some History Required Let's take a step back and see how we've arrived at this condition. While the introduction of electric lighting brought about a profound change in the technology of lighting, the three decades between 1950 and 1980 saw the transformation of applied lighting product to its current general state, lasting an additional three decades. The number of new luminaire types was impressive: the downlight, track-light, recessed lensed/ louvered lay-ins, luminous ceilings, indirect linear, cove, step, linear/point wall washes, wall slots, and an explosion of decorative, task and custom products. There are numerous reasons this period generated such an explosion of new value: the technology of lighting matured, and the ease of market entry invited a broad spectrum of new and creative participants. Engineering was straightforward and simple. UL listing was affordable and attainable. The imposition of regulation and outside influencing forces were minimal. Further, there was robust building activity generating demand and a flow of cash. In stark contrast, the era of solid-state emerging
with the rapid evolution of the technology.
today exists within a significantly different light-
Testing that requires nearly a year at signifisignifi
tHe Good?
ing universe that is stifled under the weight of
cant expense, at a time when advancement
expanding regulation and complexity.
in technology occurs weekly, introduces an
the Zhaga consortium, led by general secretary menno troffers (above), continues to make strides in developing standards for the greater interchangeability of leD light sources. the group, at lightfair, announced it now has six interface specifications. some, however, question whether the industry is mature enough to set this level of standardization. Others consider it essential. image courtesy of Zhaga
overly defensive restriction. The development
Standards Here and Now
of LM-79 and its use of absolute photometry
New market entries, in the form of manufactur-
exponentially inflates the cost of providing cuscus
ers and technical providers, create emotional
tomers useful photometry that is compounded
reaction from incumbents and lighting custom-
by any effort to deliver a range of newly innoinno
ers alike. A lack of sensitivity to conditions
vative products. The layering of UL8750 LED
within the target market—founded on a lack
compliance requirements on top of the core
of experience—causes misunderstandings and
product standard, on top of the components
offenses taken, raising defenses. Meanwhile,
standards used within, creates a significantly
focus on rapid profit growth to realize a return
tighter gauntlet to compliance than has ever
on investments demands the release of technolo-
existed before. Demands for tight and unprecunprec
gies before they are mature, which has become
edented color consistency, long warranty
the source of further demands for metric proofs
coverage periods, local and national compliance
and calls for regulation. The escalation of com-
requirements, and the hyper scrutiny that solid-
pliance testing layered on development testing
state innovators find themselves under create
has produced an exponential increase in product
a particularly hostile environment. Add to this
deployment costs. Altogether, the result is an
a trade environment that favors imports over
increase in complexity that is greater than it
domestic sourcing, a sluggish economy, and the
needs to be.
deafening noise marketing has now evolved
For example, the demands for LM-80 testing by LED producers are in direct conflict
16 • 06.12 • architectural SSL
ReACtinG to mARket pReSSuReS
at lightfair, intense lighting announced an industry-first 10-year warranty on all of its interior leD offerings. trepidation in the market place is pushing manufacturers to go to greater lengths to ensure confidence in the technology.
into in all markets. Compared to the phenomena of the aforementioned innovation explosion, it
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marketanalysis
is a wonder there is any interest in participat-
standard (CRI or CQS), lumens, watts, lumens
ing. Perhaps the lack of alternative markets for
per watt, CCT color temperature, and the CIE
innovators to focus on is all that keeps many in
coordinate description, are all adaptations or
the lighting market at all.
direct application of old metrics to a new inno-
In direct contrast to the innovators' path
vation. Furthering this are new test procedures
are the economies of employing well known
founded on old, single luminaire lab results of
techniques and technologies, under well worn
the past, and attempts to draw parallels to life
and long accepted procedures, using mature
and light output values with existing familiar
tools, materials, and components to create
sources. Like flagmen in the road before the
acceptably performing products that customers
traveling automobile, it all makes sense now, but
already understand and accept. The attractive-
effectively slows real innovation to the speed of
ness of comfort, against the distraction and
walking.
uncertainty of innovation, is powerful and magnetic. Because of this, incumbents are afforded
Too Safe?
a period of relative quiet and ease in which to
A signal that the composite result of the differ-
continue to do what has already been done, free
ences in market conditions between one era
of harassment, even if that path is recognized to
to another is manifest in the resulting prod-
be wholly obsolete.
ucts emerging. In the earlier period, the new
Further, there exists an odd unfairness that
innovAtinG
3m architectural markets, in breaking into the lighting market, commissioned designer todd Bracher to help create its "Virtual leD" lightfall system, a very unorthodox system that distributes light through a single light source. innovation on this scale has been rare, as many manufacturers have chosen to replicate forms customers already understand and accept. image courtesy of 3m
significantly different those preceding them,
lower standards of performance and safety com-
which then proliferated over an additional two
pliance. New lighting products utilizing conven-
decades. Over the last decade, there has been
tional lamp technologies are developed under a
little transformation and more focus on produc-
well established and short list of standards. No
ing new market safe adaptations of what was
special UL demands beyond the core product
already available. The result is a flood of retrofit
type, no special testing other than simple rela-
and retrofit-like products, all incorporating what
tive photometry—representing a relative free
is advertised as the greatest revolution in light-
pass to obsolete technology. Where every LED
ing since the electric light bulb. This approach
product runs a gauntlet of testing and compli-
also punishes those who stray too far from
ance certification, there remains many classes of
conventional approaches. For example, a novel
conventional products that are completely test
lighting system that utilizes LEDs to produce
exempt.
superior human vision using variable color and
This skews value creation using the new
precise optical delivery—over raw lumens and
technology from riskier efforts to deploy new
lumens/watt with fixed CRI/CQS, CCT/CIE coor-
visual performance improvements—to the safer
dinates within 3 McAdams steps, familiar socket
and less risky approach of producing familiar
fitment, etc.—falls outside the enforced norm,
forms, in the hope that sales volumes will help
even if its value creation were superior in the
pay for the costs of compliance with the array
one thing that lighting systems exist to deliver—
of restrictive codes, standards, protocols, and
human visual performance.
metric proofs. Because of this, and the economic
For manufacturers, this is all layered on top
environment surrounding it, the more successful
of the already heavy burden of learning a new
top-down approach of selling first to the least
technology, growing capabilities and resources
price sensitive early adopters, then filtering
to obtain the necessary components, and the
downward to the commodity consumer, is aban-
training required to build, sell and support what
doned in the hope of gaining the volumes early
is proving to be a moving target technology, to
and directly through forced communization.
customers equally challenged. The constant
While there are now in place good stan-
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designs and product approaches emerged as
allows obsolete technologies to continue, under
shift of LED technology, from voltage and cur-
dards with which to evaluate products, many of
rent characteristics to light output and physical
these new metrics remain founded on old para-
forms frequently obsoletes new product designs
digms. The use of a single numeric value color
before they have been fully tested or released
architectural SSL • 06.12 • 17
marketanalysis
and most certainly before they have matured,
manufacturer, on top of the added cost of the
requiring more spending and time investment,
technology itself, on top of all other regulatory
on products that were not yet profitable.
(UL) demands specific to LED products.
Non Sequitur
Call for Balance
In addition to product development and com-
While it would be foolish to allow the deployment
pliance issues, confusion has emerged in the
of solid-state lighting to run without over-
buying market created by the storm of activities,
sight, there must be in place equal effort by all
marketing efforts, regulatory mandates and
involved to provide the degree of freedom that
metrics. Strange demands for LM-80 certifica-
innovation and transformation requires. The bal-
tions—no such thing exists; TM-21 certification—
ance requires inclusion of enough performance
not within the scope of the technical memo;
data points to guide engineers, without adding
LM-79 approvals—again, not the purpose of
so many that the work of design is crushed out of
this test standard; demands for unprecedented
the equation.
warranty coverage, customer requirements for
Protection from unscrupulous preda-
Energy Star compliance for product categories
tors in the market will never be eliminated, or
outside Energy Star’s product range; and speci-
even slowed significantly by demands for more
fications for SSL products demanding perfor-
stringent compliance with rigid requirements.
mance levels so far beyond what is being asked
Those bent on deceptive tactics will make empty
of conventional products, that non-sequitur
promises and fake compliance as usual. The
comparisons are impossible to avoid. If the cur-
greatest defense comes from actively engaged
rent demands of compliance and performance
buyers and influencers, who learn to identify the
eduCAtion key
proof were placed on conventional products
trustworthy players. Meanwhile, overly burden-
with the same diligence as SSL today, the older
some regulatory activities and demands absorb
technology would grind to a halt. This includes
critical resources of those who are intent on
the very Edison sockets new LED products are
producing an honest and legitimate value.
martin product manager anager for Fixed installations Jonathan meineke eineke headed a training effort at the company's Denmark headquarters for an up-close look at its exterior lighting, as well as hands-on training in its demo room. lighting ighting designer and specifier education efforts are critical, as actively engaged buyers and influencers, who learn to identify trustworthy players, become the greatest defense against unscrupulous predators in the market. Photo: martin Professional
now screwed into, as the exposed conductor structure could not be invented today and pass
Next Steps
current UL standards.
This is not to suggest that standards development be shut down, or slowed. In many cases the
Address Inequities
new information creates solid footing for active
Within the standards storm there are numerous
innovators, providing a target to attain. Cor-
conflicting requirements. For example, Energy
recting older standards to reflect emerging new
Star standards for CFL lamps and LED lamps
knowledge is also an equally valid pursuit. That
differ significantly. CFL life is 10,000 hours, while
said, in the heat of committees deploying pages
an LED fixture with a replaceable module is
of tighter and tighter definitions and metrics,
required to deliver 35,000 hours for commercial
there must also be recognition that as solid-state
use. The same applies to lumen maintenance,
technology matures, there will be changes in
with CFL technology allowed to depreciate 20%
utilization and adoption that should be accom-
in 4,000 hours, while LEDs are required to deliver
modated with some flexibility.
94% at 6,000 hours. In color definition, the
A negative by-product of too much stan-
standard for fluorescent lamps is “nominal CCT,”
dardized information is the lazy use of standards
while LEDs are required to meet ANSI C78.377-
as a design formula, which hobbles new thinking.
2008's 7-step chroma requirements—plus pass
Decision makers and legislators alike must
additional requirements of proof through
remain diligent to avoid mandating "flagmen"
6,000 hours of source testing under LM-80 test
laws, that not only slow progress, but expose a
guidelines. While these seem good differences,
lack of real vision for what new value this new
the cost and effort required for compliance
cycle of lighting development has the potential
is significantly greater for the LED product
to grow—if given the space to do so.•
18 • 06.12 • architectural SSL
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Circle 07
tOPicS At the FrONt
CI RCADIAN RHYTHMS
I MPROVED PRODUCTI VITY
MOOD
HUMAN CENTRIC LIGHTING
ENERGY SAVI NGS AND SUSTAI NABILITY
VISUAL ACUITY
Human CentriC LigHting
Thanks to developments in solid-state lighting there now exists a whole new capability to dim and “tune” correlated color temperature—commonly called Kelvin changing or shifting. More importantly, this sea change can really improve conditions for people.
By Stan Walerczyk, CLEP, LC, Principal, Lighting Wizards
Claiming that better lighting can
under moonlight. These varying
health issues. Specifically, light and
setting one’s internal clock, so to
improve health is a big supposition.
light levels are at the heart of a
darkness control hormone produc-
speak. They are especially respon-
That said, it is not outlandish to
human being’s 24-hour internal
tion. During the day, with a natural
sive to light that is rich in blue con-
state that carefully designed light-
clock, otherwise defined as circa-
circadian rhythm, appropriate
tent, the mid-day sky, for example,
ing can aid, even correct, circadian
dian rhythm. Until 200 years ago,
amounts of dopamine are secreted
which can be up to 10,000K. This
rhythms in human beings.
90% of our waking time was spent
for pleasure, alertness and muscle
is particularly notable in that blue
outside. Now most of us spend 90%
coordination; seratonin for impulse
light content suppresses mela-
evolved in harmony with the
of our time indoors with electric
control and carbohydrate cravings;
tonin and encourages dopamine,
Earth’s natural lighting cycle,
lighting. While we’re at work, our
and cortisol for stress response.
serotonin, and cortisol production,
which has low light levels and low
lighting is usually set at one light
During the night, melatonin allows
meaning greater exposure to it
correlated color temperatures
level with a constant CCT—this
for sleep, and refreshes our body.
during the day can lead people to
(CCT) in the early morning, high
is not consistent with circadian
Recent research, specifi-
light levels and high CCTs at mid
rhythms. Without regular and
cally, the discovery of intrinsically
work, or even during night shifts.
day, low light levels and low CCTs
direct exposure to such dynamic
photosensitive retinal ganglion
At the same time, at night, such
during evening, and extremely
lighting, the circadian rhythm can
cells (ipRGC) in our bodies, has
melatonin disruption can create
low light levels and a medium CCT
be disrupted, which could lead to
been found to be very important in
sleep issues.
Over time, people have
20 22 • 06.12 05.12 • Architectur ArchitecturAl Architectur ArchitecturA ArchitecturA AAl Al ll SSL SSL
be more alert and productive at
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PLanned ParticiPation
At Saltillo elementary School near tupelo, Miss., Philip’s SchoolVision system was installed as part of a study by the university of Mississippi. image courtesy Philips
Low-key/uPtemPo
Four different light settings were implemented, including “calm” (above), and “normal” (left). the study found that students exposed to the varying lighting experienced increases in performance 33% higher than students in the control group. image courtesy Philips
Implemented in several European,
maintain or increase lumens per
research in this area complete with
Philips has done some
and at least one American, school,
watt when dimmed, as long as the
case studies involving high and
lighting is set at 12,000K for the
drivers maintain a good power
low CCT fluorescent lamps with
first 30 minutes in the morning
factor when dimmed. Drivers that
dimming electronic ballasts, that
to shut down remnants of the
minimize flicker can be very impor-
can provide a full range of very
children’s sleep cycle and “turn on”
tant during dimming. Changing
warm white, to white light, rich in
their day cycle. For “normal” study
CCTs with LEDs is easy with either
blue content. Its HealWell study,
and learning activity times, color
RGB or low and high Kelvin white
used in healthcare patient rooms,
temperatures are set between
LEDs, when dimming one more
for example, uses high-lumen,
5000- to 6500K. The light level can
than the other.
high-CCT lighting for morning to
be doubled for literacy instruc-
mid-afternoon illumination, and
tions. After recess and during rest
resulted in a recent trip to South
lower-lumen, lower CCT lighting
time, classrooms are set to 2700K
Korea, and visits to manufacturers
for late afternoon. Results from at
for a calming effect. Results, so
Galaxia and Prism, who currently
least one European hospital show
far, have demonstrated increased
offer dimmable and color-shifting
improved patient satisfaction and
academic performance.
LED fixtures in the range of 3000
support recovery in patient rooms. Philips’ SchoolVision program has found similar results.
FocaL Point
As the Venn diagram above notes, beyond building performance, lighting is at the core of many elements that affect human physiology and performance.
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These specific studies were
Researching this topic
to 6500K. The Galaxia Smart
done using various CCT fluores-
LED troffer, and Prism’s TL-4400
cent lamps in each fixture and dim-
non-Kelvin-shifting task light—
ming ballasts, which works well.
distributed in the United States by
Philips is also developing similar
PlanLED—were acknowledged by
solutions using LED systems. The
the Next Generation Luminaires
issue is color rendering toward
Design Competition, and this
the 12,000K range. That said, the
was before dimming and Kelvin
“bright side” of LEDs, opposed to
shifting models were introduced.
fluorescent, is that the former can
Also at Lightfair, Lighting Science
Scores Support Study elementary school students performed better in oral reading fluency achievement, a key component of reading comprehension, when exposed to a higher quality of classroom light, according to a study by Philips and the university of Mississippi. the study, “the relationship of Dynamic lighting and Oral reading Fluency,” was conducted by the university’s center of excellence in literacy instruction using the Philips SchoolVision dynamic lighting system for the classroom. eighty-four 3rd grade children in four different classrooms at Saltillo elementary School, near tupelo, were randomly assigned to two different lighting settings throughout the year. Students exposed to lighting with higher light intensity and light temperature levels had, by the end of the year, increases in performance that were 33% higher than the increases in performance of the control group. “light settings vary greatly in classrooms, and the results of this study raise important questions on how lighting is selected for optimizing teaching and learning,” says Michael Mott with the university of Mississippi. the system adjusts light and color temperature to mimic the dynamics of daylight, influencing a student’s mood and helping to improve the learning environment. the system features preset lighting levels for various classroom situations and activities. the research built on other recent studies and the findings were similar to results released earlier this year by the centre for Performance at Work at city university london. For more, visit www.philips. com/schoolvision com/schoolvision.
ArchitecturAl SSL • 06.12 • 21
LightFusion Lab, Germany
animated environment
At the lightFusion lab in Germany, the company is using Fraunhofer’s Virtual Sky system to create a dynamic environment. Not only can the system create color, it can also replicate a blue sky effect—clouds included—or a simple white light luminous environment. Photo: Steve Krappitz
Group, Lumentix and Global Light-
or home setting to match the CCT
better. Some hospital ICU halls and
ing Technologies featured similar
outside the building through-
nurse stations have red or amber
offerings. Other manufacturers
out most of the day, which may
light at night for this reason.
may already have or will probably
help keep proper internal clock
offer similar fixtures. Dimming
alignment.
and Kelvin shifting hard-wired
Conversely, the intensity and
Mood Setting Beyond energy levels in people,
LED troffer kits are also being
color temperature of any lighting-
lighting is being studied as to how
developed. Why is this impor-
related product must be consid-
it affects people’s moods. It’s been
tant? Imagine coming back from
ered. Why? Many people have a
shown, especially in medical set-
lunch and feeling groggy. Instead
hard time going to sleep at night.
tings such as MRI chambers, that
of drinking coffee or some other
Why? One culprit may be comput-
nature scenes can help people feel
caffeine stimulant, it may work to
ers and pads that are used up to
less nervous. On the lighting side,
simply increase a fixture’s CCT and
three hours before going to bed.
several companies use films over
light level. Such “tuning” could
Most of these devices are relatively
fluorescent troffers to create such
be accomplished every day and
bright and have high content of
scenes. The problem is that not
controlled in an office, hospital
blue light. Red light at night can be
enough light gets through such
22 • 06.12 • ArchitecturAl SSL
HigH tecH
the Virtual Sky System consists of 50-cm. square panels each with 288 rGBW leDs so it can create more than 16 million hues. A matte film diffuses the light and hides the individual leD pixels.
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LIGHTING SOLUTIONS ARCHI T E CT UR AL SOL ID STAT E L IGH T ING
EURO VERTICAL LUMINOUS COLUMNS WHITE LIGHT & COLOR CHANGING
ILLUSIONS INTERIOR & EXTERIOR LINEAR LUMINOUS LIGHTING WHITE LIGHT & COLOR CHANGING
VENTANA INTERIOR & EXTERIOR LED DECORATIVE SCONCE WHITE LIGHT & COLOR CHANGING
MEDLEY FAMILY INTERIOR & EXTERIOR HIGH PERFORMANCE LED LINEAR LIGHTING WHITE LIGHT & COLOR CHANGING
SMARTWALL INTERIOR LED ILLUMINATED WALL & WINDOW SYSTEMS WHITE LIGHT & COLOR CHANGING
LE D Light ing Solut ions f o r Today ’s D e signe r s Insight’s high performance LED products provide solutions for a wide variety of LED applications. Our products are available in white light, static colors and RGB color changing. All LED products carry a 5-Year Limited Warranty.
www.insightlighting.com
Circle 08
MEDLEY FAMILY INTERIOR & EXTERIOR HIGH PERFORMANCE LED LINEAR LIGHTING WHITE LIGHT & COLOR CHANGING
TOPICS AT THE FRONT
films and lenses, so a relatively high wattage is necessary. LED is probably a better source for such applications. But much more impressive is Fraunhofer’s virtual sky system which uses RGB LEDs to create very dramatic, and certainly dynamic, spaces, be it “blue sky” or some variation of color. Hopefully, the roughly $1,000-per-sq.-yd. price will come down in the not-so-distant future.
Productivity Gains? All of these technological advancement may help improve worker productivity. Granted, metrics for such improvements are difficult to evaluate, but just reducing 5 minutes of wasted time per day—say 1% of an eight-hour shift—could translate to a $500 savings per person per year for somebody making an annual $50,000. Such annual savings dwarf installed cost,
AwArd winner
electrical savings, maintenance
Galaxia Electronic’s tunable Smart LED troffer was a “recognized” Next Generation Lighting Awards winner at Lightfair. The dimmable fixture has a Kelvin-shifting range of 3000 to 6500K.
savings and rebates.
Photo courtesy: PlanLED/Galaxia Electronics
Savings & Sustainability On the subject of power savings, where do dimmable and Kelvinshifting LED fixtures rate? Watts per sq. ft. can be low, especially when paired with similar task
Visual Acuity
spectrum. In general, the rela-
lights. Offices can have 0.4 watts
Beyond the way people feel or
tive amount of blue light in a light
per sq. ft., including both ambient
react based on color temperature
source is also correlated with the
and task lights.
and intensity, lighting, perhaps
CCT rating, although there are
most significantly, affects visual
variations among lamp types. To
Kelvin-shifting LED products cost
acuity. Light sources that have
illustrate this idea, consider being
about the same as their dimming
relatively higher amounts of blue
able to read one smaller row of
and fixed-Kelvin equivalents. But
light stimulate the ipRGC pho-
letters on your eye doctor’s Snellen
there is an additional cost for local
toreceptors, which in turn make
chart. This could be accomplished
controls and labor. With such low
the pupils of the eye smaller; this
with a 5000K fixture compared to
power density and electric bills,
results in better visual acuity so
3500K fluorescent lighting under
complex and building wide controls
a person can see more clearly
the same conditions.
are often not cost effective.
under otherwise identical lighting
Some of the dimming and
With such a low carbon foot-
The term used to describe
conditions and measured photopic
using spectrum in lighting design
print and no mercury, these LED
footcandle levels. The correlation
to affect visual acuity is spectrally
fixtures are quite sustainable. That
of lamp spectral distribution and
enhanced lighting. It can either
said, DOE has yet to determined
pupil size can be described by the
improve visual acuity using the
if LEDs are more environmental
scotopic/photopic (S/P) ratio of
same light levels, or can be used to
friendly or cradle-to-cradle than
the lamp, and higher S/P values
reduce the light level while main-
incumbent technologies.
indicate more blue in the light
taining the visual acuity, which is
24 • 06.12 • ARCHITECTuRAL SSL
SmArt cookie
The Smart LED troffer has a CRI of 88.7, consumes 43 watts with an efficacy of 91.30 lm. per watt, and an overall light output of 3926 lumens according to NGL data. Photo courtesy: PlanLED/Galaxia
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Introducing the missing element
www.humanscale.com
Circle 09
Classic
Vision
790
TOPICS At THE FRONT
used to save energy. For example, in many applications 5000K can save about 20% more energy than equivalent 3500K. LEDs may add more versatility to this, since they have the ability to fine-tune the spectrum to activate the ipRGC photoreceptors even if warmer CCTs are prescribed.
The Dept. of Energy has
performed significant research on spectrally enhanced lighting since 1986. Many of these initiatives were done under the direction Brian Liebel, with whom this author has assisted since 2001. Recently, Rod Heller joined the effort and has
Tunable. At Lightfair, Global Lighting Technologies demonstrated a tunable white LED fixture it’s developed in conjunction with Toshiba in Japan. It’s not only dimmable, but it can be color-tuned as half the LEDs in the fixture are 2700K, and the other half are 6000K.
been installing a relatively new fluorescent lamp with a CCT of 8000K. His research has shown that high CCT lighting is not only spectrally enhanced, but may also be good for
experienced the occupant satisfac-
the benefits of spectrally enhanced
circadian rhythms during work.
tion benefits and energy savings
lighting are real and significant.
themselves.
intensive environment at an insur-
To date, all of the DOE research
www.newscenter.philips.com/main/
ance company, ambient light levels
on the use of spectrally enhanced
and case studies on spectrally
standard/news/press/2011/20111122-
were lowered to 15 fc using 8000K
lighting has been the acceptance
enhanced lighting have been done
healwell.wpd
lamps. Employees have noted
of the calculation method by the
with 5000K fluorescent lamps.
they’re able to see better, are not
Illuminating Engineering Society.
We have observed that 4000K
Schoolvision:
as tired at the end of the day, and
As of this writing, the IES Visual
LED often looks more like 5000K
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lfc1y8q5l4&
sleep better at night.
Effects of Lamp Spectral Effects
fluorescent, which may be due to
feature=related
Committee, which has spent three
higher S/P ratios of LEDs vs. fluo-
ing operation, 8000K lamps were
years investigating how spectrum
rescent lamps of the same CCT. The
www.wtva.com/content/mediacenter/
installed in a small area of the plant
affects vision for interior lighting,
S/P values of light sources give an
default.aspx?videoId=6673@wtva.web.
to test against the existing 5000K
has written a technical memoran-
approximate value for the relative
entriq.net&navCatId=17
lamps. Employee preference for the
dum that has gone through several
amount of blue light energy in a
8000K lamps was so positive that
preliminary reviews, and is cur-
light source and correlate well with
Galaxia/Prism tunable fixtures:
the entire plant is being relamped.
rently in its final review.
the ipRGC photoreceptors. S/P val-
www.youtube.com/
One major reason, beyond similar
This is not to say such a pub-
ues for LED light sources will have
watch?v=OPaKuOeuMg8
comments at the insurance office,
lication will translate to universal
to be determined in order to assess
was the fact that it became easier
acceptance of the benefits of spec-
their ability to affect visual acuity.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ccaNHv3f2o
to see defects. In fact, the manu-
trally enhanced lighting; some say
facturer’s ISO 9000 inspector gave
that the research and case studies
Editor’s Note:
www.youtube.com/
them high marks for their lighting
have had a Hawthorne Effect—
Brian Liebel, PE, principal of the
watch?v=XMM66hdD168
based on visual acuity.
where respondents modify their
Lighting Partnership; and Rodney
For example, in a computer-
Similarly, in a manufactur-
One of the biggest questions
So where does LED come in?
Video Links: Healwell system:
behavior simply because they know
Heller, CLEP, LC, managing partner
5000K or higher CCT fluorescent
they’re being studied. Others are
of Energy Performance Lighting,
DOE Research
lighting for many military and
also skeptical that smaller pupil
contributed to this piece. Liebel is
www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/
retrofit projects. Numerous other
size results in better visual acuity;
the principal investigator for DOE’s
spectrally_enhanced.html
lighting professionals have done
some defer to alternative research
Spectrally Enhanced Lighting Pro-
the same. Many lighting contrac-
that did not provide for the proper
gram. Heller is the chair of the IES
Fraunhofer’s Virtual Sky System
tors, after having initial doubts,
study controls; and still others “just
“Guidelines for Upgrading Lighting
www.fastcoexist.com/1679095/
have also changed to the 5000K
don’t like it.” However, the over-
in Commercial and Institutional
can-natural-light-make-employees-more-
lamps as a standard once they have
whelming body of evidence is that
Spaces.”
productive
A colleague has specified at
26 • 06.12 • Architectural SSL
www.architecturalssl.com
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Circle 10
F§±TUR§D PRoj§Ct
W Hotel San Francisco, Calif.
Simple, But elegant
Owners: Keck Sing Investments Architects: Stanley Saitowitz/ Natoma Architects, Inc. Lighting Design: Natoma Architects with Rudolph Commercial Interiors. LED product manufacturers: Sensitile Terrazzo Text: Vilma Barr Photos: Rien van Rijthoven The Challenge: First opened in 1999, the slim W San Francisco is a boutique facility located in a prime area downtown, across from the Moscone Convention Center. Its 404 guest rooms occupy 33 floors, with rooms on the upper floors offering panoramic views of the cityscape. Updating the interior spaces and upgrading the exterior had not been undertaken since the hotel welcomed its first guests more than a decade ago. Keck Sing Investments, the new owners, purchased the hotel in 2009. In that time, the W brand had evolved from edgy, New York-centric destinations to an edgy global brand. To remain competitive in the city’s hospitality market, where sleeker, more contemporary lodgings had come onto the scene, Keck Sing lost no time in planning a makeover of the public spaces on the entry level and the level directly above it. In 2010, they retained award-winning local architect Stanley Saitowitz to redesign these spaces, as well as the hotel’s restaurant and bars.
The Solution: Leading off the design brief was a nine-word directive: Make it look like it belongs in San Francisco. “Our initial charge was to come up with a design that was site-specific and unique. The owners wanted an interior to reflect recognized aspects of the city,” says architect Stanley Saitowitz. “They wanted the interior spaces to function as
28 • 06.12 • ArchitecturAl SSL
a visual narrative of the San Francisco environment.” Saitowitz had previously interpreted other clients’ wishes to successfully communicate their image visually. Examples range from the restaurant Toast, in a nearby Bay area community, where the warm brown interior wall surfaces was punctuated with openings mimick-
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The operators of the W San Francisco, with a little LED and creative use of wood, were able to give a fresh look to the hotel lobby to help keep it competitive with new players in the downtown hospitality market.
ing the surfaces of toasted bread, to the Tampa Museum of Art, where he designated a major exterior surface for the projection of changing light art shows. For the new W San Francisco interior, he described his vision “as a fantasy city, as portrayed in films and song, built on a grid of hills and shrouded in glowing fog.”
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Saitowitz’s first task was to devise a design statement for the public spaces on the first and second levels. “They were small and enclosed, like cave rooms,” he recalls. “The arrival area, the bar, the lounge, were all separate. Our strategy was to open everything up, extend the space to its limits.”
ArchitecturAl SSL • 06.12 • 29
HEArT—AnD HEArT rT— rT T—AnD fixTurES—in THE rigHT PLACE in creating an illuminated interior environment that interprets San Francisco’s singular urban magnetism, which prompts vocalists like tony Bennett to leave their heart there, Saitowitz says the city’s buildings are not unlike “cubes in a set of children’s building blocks,” but placed along grid patterns of streets. this became his inspiration for the primary unifying structural and furnishings theme. the other theme, he says, was fog, “rolling in and out of the city, enveloping it.” Floors, walls, and ceiling all contribute to his cubist expressionism for the space that achieves its potential with lighting. James curry of rudolph commercial interiors, inc., Oakland, coordinated with the hotel’s management to develop an integrated and energy-efficient lighting program. Wood panels formed of linear vertical and horizontal slats that wrap up the interior walls are backlit by leDs. “We used 120-volt standard dimmable leD rope lighting, fed from a standard electrical outlet.” curry says. “each outlet controls up to 160 ft. of light. in our experience, having the lights plugged into an outlet is best for maintenance and for the carpenters while installing the panels,” he suggests. existing 45-watt recessed incandescent downlights were already in place on both levels to emphasize the faux fog gauzy fabric-covered ceiling. For additional overhead sparkle, halo’s Gu10base, 110 volt, 4-7-watt dimmable Mr16 halogen replacement fixture was selected. uplights throughout the redesigned areas are lithonia’s dimmable t t-5 28-watt lamps.
30 • 06.12 • ArchitecturAl SSL
Architect Stanley Saitowitz wished to mimic a sense of the city’s fog inside, which he accomplished, in part with the use of metal mesh. leD lighting helped create a strong contrast, reminiscent of buildings illuminated at night.
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For the new canopy signage at the W San Francisco, perforated metal is fabricated in a custom “fog” pattern and powder-coated in high gloss white. the anodized aluminum frame is illuminated by an leD strip fixture.
LED Offers California Quality While not as obvious as the interior setting, 3- to 7-watt LED strip lighting was used to light the angular new exterior canopy with its “W” logo. Not only did the source provide a clean, unobtrusive look, it helped the project meet California’s stringent Title 24 requirements. According to James Curry, of Rudolph Commercial Interiors, Oakland, who assisted with the lighting design, the retrofit project was calculated at 1.47 watts per sq. ft., easily meeting Title 24 Code allowance of 1.57 watts per sq. ft. The project also earned LEED Silver certification. Architect Saitowitz introduced LED technology into his concept of viewing the city’s grid of twinkling street lights as it would be viewed from an
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EnErgy EffiCiEnT Beyond trying to establish a swank, contemporary feel, lighting had to be energy efficient. in fact, it had to be super efficient to meet stringent california title 24 requirements of only 1.57 watts per sq. ft. in the case of the hotel’s marquee, leD, in the form of strip lights consuming only 3 to 7 watts, helped the design team meet the tough energy budget. inside, the efficacy of leD, although used more for color effect, also helped keep energy down, as did dimmable 4- to 7-watt Mr16-style halogen replacement fixtures. Simple, low wattage light ropes—plugged directly into a wall socket—were also employed within to illuminate the wood slats, with each outlet controlling up to 160 ft. of light. All in all, the final electrical tab came in at 1.47 watts per sq. ft.—pretty good for a mainly artistic installation.
ArchitecturAl SSL • 06.12 • 31
approaching aircraft by imbedding the second level bar top with LEDs. Sensitile Systems, Ypsilanti, Mich., customized its Terrazzo Lumina micro-concrete slabs in 72-in. lengths to achieve this effect. Sensitile President Abhinand Lath explains that embedded light guides can be illuminated from external light sources. “Typically, they are LEDs which can be removed for servicing,” Lath says.
“Many hotels that postponed updating and renovating after the economic recession hit are now pumping tens of millions of dollars into renovations. It’s not a San Francisco phenomenon; it’s a national phenomenon.”
A SAn frAnCiSCO viSuAL nArrATivE For the first and second level public spaces, floors, walls, and ceiling all contribute to architect Saitowitz’s cubist expressionism for the space, derived from the city street grid pattern, that achieves its potential with lighting. Wood panels formed of linear vertical and horizontal slats that wrap up the interior walls are backlit by leDs.
32 • 06.12 • ArchitecturAl SSL
LED lights on the bottom of the bar along the long side shine up into a special optic that bring the light to the illuminated points. “The 1/4-in. square RGB light points on the material’s surface are placed on a threeinch square grid, supplied with a color-changing DMX enabled controller,” Lath adds. Two towers behind the bar displaying bottles and glassware emulate the skyscrapers surrounding the hotel. All furnishings and the patterned carpet, another variation of the grid pattern, were custom designed by Saitowitz and his staff. W San Francisco’s general manager Michael Pace is proud of the LEED Silver Certification awarded to the hotel. He observes that the new design has instilled the San Francisco lifestyle as part of the hotel’s DNA. “Many hotels that postponed updating and renovating after the economic recession hit are now pumping tens of millions of dollars into renovations. It’s not a San Francisco phenomenon; it’s a national phenomenon,” Pace concludes.• www.architecturalssl.com
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Circle 11
Circle 12
ssLprofile: Sonic wall DanceS to a beat oF LIGHt anD MUsiC in branding casino parx casIno Bensalem, Pa.
Extending nearly the length of a football field and up to 36 ft. high, the four front wall sections flanking the entry to the Parx Casino offered an image-making exterior opportunity to its operators. Located in Bensalem, Pa., Parx Casino draws patrons from nearby Philadelphia as well as New Jersey communities across the Delaware River. For the principal owner of Greenwood Gaming & Entertainment, the façade was also envisioned as a multi-dimensional art work. “The client is a very knowledgeable art collector,” says John Levy, president of John Levy Lighting Productions, Inc., Los Angeles. “He wanted a public art installation that would become not only an identifying visual icon but also represent the entire project’s design esthetic. His involvement extended throughout the design process,” Levy indicates. Levy, with lighting designer Jon Langrell and public artist Caryl Marie Christian Levy of CMC Fine Arts, both based in Los Angeles, made an initial client presentation based on an archiimages: caryl Marie christian Levy
tectural façade articulation with static uplighting. “His response was to expand the concept for the artwork to act as energizing landmark brand for the building at night and have a sculptural presence during the day,” says Levy. With this directive as a planning tool, the design team, including the architects, Freidmutter Group, Las Vegas, turned their talents to creating a dimensional lighting performance. Light and sound then came together to
above: Using mosaic software, lighting program designer Langrell created over 700 effects and color changes that were choreographed to the tempo of each movement. Upper and lower LED light sources, Color Blaze 72 by ColorKinetics, were installed in a trough in continuous rows with DMX addresses every six in. “This degree of flexibility creates a huge variety of ‘looks,’ including horizontal divides in a mosaic of solid colors, color mixes, and special effects,” says John Levy, John Levy Lighting Productions, the project’s creative director.
express the owner’s objective to propose “Sonic Wall.” Four separate fiberglass bas-relief murals would be installed behind a continuous glass wall. Its surface, according to Levy, would be rendered as convex and concave ribbons weaving in and out of each other. “We explained how LED colored
www.architecturalssl.com
arChiTECTUraL SSl • 06.12 • 35
ssLprofile:
parx casIno, Bensalem, Pa.
The challenge: at night, animate the texturally intriguing, yet austere walls of the Parx Casino in Bensalem, Pa. specifically, the client wanted a public art installation that would become not only an identifying visual icon, but also represent the entire project’s design aesthetic. The SoluTion: To bring to life the interesting texture of the wall, lighting designer Jon Langrell and public artist CMC Fine arts came up with a strategy involving dynamic use of colored LED that would work in conjunction with music to make the walls “dance.” ProjecT creDiTS:
client: Greenwood Gaming and Casino architect: Freidmutter Group, Las Vegas Lighting Design: Jon Langrell
a river runS Through iT Four separate fiberglass bas-relief murals are installed behind a continuous glass wall. The surface is rendered as convex and concave ribbons weaving in and out of each other. Many of the dances that play across the facade were influenced by the current and tidal patterns of the nearby Delaware river.
trough in continuous rows with DMX addresses
rehearsals were coordinated with the architec-
every six inches. “This degree of flexibility creates
tural landscaping schedule on-site during evening
a huge variety of ‘looks,’ including horizontal
hours in challenging cold weather conditions in
divides in a mosaic of solid colors, color mixes,
November and December.
ProDucTS:
and special effects,” says Levy, who served as the
CrEsTron: ToPs-4000L touch panel and Pro 2 Professional control processor CoLor KinETiCs: ColorBlaze 6 LED and 4 LED lighting fixtures Lsi: Par 38 track lights ETC: sr24 dimming rack Pharos: Electronic theater controls lighting playback controller—4 universes nET GEar: 24-port Ethernet switch 10/100/1000; WiFi receiver DoUG FLEEnor: Model 1211-5 repeater
project’s creative director.
light sources would dance along the wall to
Artist Levy brought her ideas to life using
locked in the final imagery in place, we were
maquette. As the mixed-media installation
satisfied that it could be enjoyed from a distance,
moved through the design processes, they were
and at the same time the LED output does not
transmitted to the fabricator, Heavy Industries,
lose it essential qualities from close up,” Langrell
Calgary, Alberta, who developed full-size foam
reports.
molds that were then translated into fiberglass
relate how her designs for the illuminated Sonic
and erected to evaluate the visual balance of
Wall were influenced by the current and tidal
the ribbons, their dimensions and finish, and the
patterns of the nearby Delaware River. “As the
interplay of the LED lighting on the undulating
colored light appears to dance along the walls,
surfaces.
the mural responds to the musical score and the
Sound and light work in tandem to produce a
mural. This approach matched the owner’s vision,
appear on a single wall; other times they sweep
and we received approval to proceed,” Levy
across the whole façade,” Levy indicates.
Suites,” was arranged with both traditional and contemporary tempos, using a digital piano and
During the testing, artist Caryl Levy could
ribbons. A mock-up was shipped to Los Angeles
variety of effects. “Sometimes the light and color
A five-movement, 27-minute dance, “Sonic
from the designers and the owner. “When we
a 3D CAD program to define a dimensional
original music, animating the bas relief sculpture
states.
Refinements in lighting patterns and coordinated sound levels achieved ultimate approval
Views of Parx Casino’s Sonic Wall from
subtle shifts in the surrounding environment,” she observes. To impart shadows and contrast to the mural, the fiberglass ribbons are 10 in. deep. The resultant dimensionality to the surface produces
various surrounding locations was an important
a painterly effect, similar to theatrical lighting
element in the planning of the lighting.
techniques applied to a massive stage set. During
“The site is visible from one-half mile by
some of the programmed phases for the Sonic
a library of digital sounds created by the project’s
approaching drivers and guests in hotels, and by
Wall, parts of the surface are dark, giving an illu-
artist, Caryl Marie Christian Levy. Using mosaic
pedestrians from 10 ft. away,” Langrell points out.
sion of movement of the walls themselves.
software, lighting program designer Langrell
“It was important to deliver an experience that
created more than 700 effects and color changes
could be appreciated from these two extremes,”
on the project was “overjoyed” with the final
that were choreographed to the tempo of each
he says.
product. “Guests love the visual excitement that
movement. Upper and lower LED light sources, Color Blaze 72 by ColorKinetics, were installed in a
36 • 06.12 • architecturaL SSl
Langrell and the design team were able to
According to John Levy, the principal owner
the light and sound give to the entry—lots of
test and complete aspects of the programming in
‘wow’ comments as they stop and experience it
their studios. Lighting performance, editing and
before going into the casino,” Levy reports.•
www.architecturalssl.com
To The Winners: The Architectural SSL magazine Product Innovation Awards determine and honor innovation for LED/solid-state luminaires and fixtures on the market, while also recognizing the companies behind the components that make up these light sources. Also recognized through the judging process are leaders in categories ranging from those conducting cutting-edge R+D, to those helping in the development of standards as well as those pushing to make solid-state lighting a truly sustainable technology. We congratulate each of these companies listed below on earning their 2012 PIA.
To our readers: Please take note of each of these companies honored for their innovation and for their leadership. Recognize these manufacturers as leaders making determined and strategic efforts to move sensible, sustainable, functional and artistic solid-state products into architectural spaces. To lighTing manufacTurers: Plan to enter your most innovative products in the 2013 Architectural SSL PIA’s accepting entries in late September, 2012.
Acuity Lithonia Acuity American Electric Lighting Albeo Tech Alva Beacon Products BetaCalco Cooper Lighting CREE, Inc. Dual-Lite EldoLED ERCO Finelite GE Hubbell Outdoor Lighting Ideal Industries iLight Technologies Intematix Juno Lighting Kenall KIM Lighting Kirlin Lighting Kurt Versen Lighting Quotient LSI Lumenpulse Lunera Lusio Meteor Lighting OSRAM Opto Semiconductors Philips Hadco Philips Roadway Lighting Philips Lightolier Philips Lumileds Prescolite RAB Lighting ROAL Living Energy Selux Sternberg Lighting Tasca TEMPO Lighting TerraLUX Illumination Traxon USAI WAC Lighting
the White pages
By Kevin Willmorth, editor
Inside the Workings of LM-80 and TM-21 Neither LM-80 or TM-21 data provides “service life.” Based on incoming requests and inquiries of manufacturers, as well as
period of 6,000 hours; and for sample populations 20 or greater, the
observed manufacturer communications, confusion as to what LM-80
maximum number of hours for projecting lumen depreciation state-
and TM-21 are, and how they are applied, seems widespread. Neither of
ments is six times the test period, or 36,000 hours for a 6,000 hour test.
these are certification processes, life predictors, or approval methods. Further, LM-80 and TM-21 apply only to the LED—without compos-
For this reason, any statements noting lumen depreciation ratings of 50,000 hours will require 9,100 hours of testing for small sample
ite lumen depreciation experienced from optical and electronic losses.
Approved Method: LM-80-08 Purpose: Measure Lumen Maintenance of LED Light Sources LM-80 is a test procedure for LED testing to determine lumen maintenance of an LED light source over a limited amount of time. This includes parameters for voltage and current conditions, thermal conditions, environmental conditions, measurement procedures, and
“In no case is TM-21 test data to be interpreted as service life. The definition of 'service life' is derived from a recommendation made by ASSIST, where a connection between lumen depreciation and 'life' of LED systems is made. In no case is the term 'service life' included in either LM-80 or TM-21 test data."
other normalizing conditions, with an outline of the test report to be provided. The required tests include samples operated at a case tempera-
sizes, and 8,400 hours for sample sizes of 20 LED or more. To back claims of 70,000 hours requires a minimum of 11,700 hours (1.33 years).
ture of 55˚C, 85˚C, and one additional temperature selected by the
Should the test samples fall short of a desired output prior to these
manufacturer.
projections, the actual time at which the lumen depreciation has fallen
The minimum duration of an LM-80 test is 6,000 hours. Tests may
to a preselected level is used.
be accomplished over any sample size the manufacturer decides and for any number of hours longer than 6,000. The data collected and reported in LM-80 alone is of little use
Not a Magic Bullet In no case is TM-21 test data to be interpreted as service life. The
to lighting decision makers, since few LEDs operate within the test
definition of the term “Service Life” is derived from a recommenda-
conditions defined and expected useful life of an LED system is greater
tion made by the Alliance for Solid-State Illumination Systems and
than the test period outlined. The exception to this is to verify the test
Technologies (ASSIST) revised in 2007. The ASSIST recommendation
duration and sample size, which has an impact on reporting of lumen
is where the connection between lumen depreciation and “life” of LED
depreciation defined by TM-21.
systems is made.
IES TM-21-11 Purpose: Projecting Long-Term Lumen Maintenance of LED Light Sources
TM-21. There is also no requirement within TM-21 to use any specific
TM-21 is a technical memo (TM) form the Illuminating Engineering
that outlined by ASSIST recommendations, such as L80 = 36,000, to
Society (IES), describing the procedure for deriving long-term lumen
reflect the limits of projection period, showing the actual lumen depre-
depreciation from test data collected in LM-80 testing. This applies
ciation at the stated hours.
In no case is the term "service life" included in either LM-80 or
only to a selected percent of initial lumens, with limits to be applied to the projection based on test sample size and duration. TM-21 also describes procedures for extrapolating lumen depre-
lumen maintenance cutoff point. For this reason, it is acceptable to provide statements of lumen depreciation of a product different than
The most accurate representation of results will include more data, such as [LED = L70 (6K × 25) >36,000 hours] to represent the ASSIST L70 life of a sampling of 25 products over 6,000 hours under
ciation of an LED to include in-situ conditions within a specific lumi-
LM-80 conditions, extrapolated and reported within the guidelines of
naire configuration. This requires additional data to be collected by the
TM-21.
manufacturer, such as LM-79 photometric testing. Be aware that TM-21 includes several important limits: it requires
Since neither LM-80 nor TM-21 includes any factors to include losses and degradation of lens materials, driver and power supply per-
a minimum of 10 samples be tested under LM-80; sample sizes must be
formance losses, or dirt accumulation, these factors must be included
between 10 and 19; the maximum number of hours/test results are to
by the lighting professional, and subtracted from any luminaire manu-
be projected to 5.5 times the actual test period—33,000 hours for a test
facturer projected service life statements.•
38 • 06.12 • architectural SSL
www.architecturalssl.com
storage 87% capacity.
Rotate light shelves.
Energy usage audit in progress.
Controller: Activate evening
the White pages
By Kevin Willmorth, editor
Avoiding the Non Sequitur Comparison Don't assume new technology is superior simply because it's new The definition of ‘non sequitur’ includes jumping to conclusions, using
also includes the impact a failed lighting product has on occupants
intuitive assumption, drawing conclusions without following objective
and operations. While a lamp failing in a residential space has a low
premise, and the following of inference over objective founding. In the
cost or risk, the same cannot be said for an operating light in an
deployment of solid-state lighting, the use of non sequitur statements
emergency room.
and comparisons are frequent and commonplace. The result is decision making that is not well founded, culminating in disappointing results. To avoid being drawn into marketing claims and overly simplistic statements or comparisons that are either intentionally misleading, or fail to present objective comparisons out of enthusiasm, decision makers can benefit from taking a moment to think about a few basics of avoiding non sequitur comparisons and informational failures in
“While not every product needs to be over-thought or evaluated in depth, trusting gut feelings and marketing materials can lead to significant errors in decision making, resulting in long-term cost and expense beyond simplistic initial assumptions.”
decision making.
Is the new technology truly superior?
In the case of SSL products, a low-end manufacturer offering
Just because LEDs are the latest new technology in lighting, does not
cheap products without backing can lead to failure costs that exceed
mean they are inherently superior. Taking the time to write down
the initial cost of the system purchased.
factual strengths and weaknesses of products under consideration,
Failing to consider the risks of a failed lamp or lighting product
against other technologies that could be used for the same purpose
can lead to falsely concluding a lower cost and less reliable product is
may be enlightening. These comparisons must be as fair as pos-
superior to its more robust competitor.
sible, including researching alternatives, to be certain that one is not comparing an out of date conventional product to an up to date new
Is the performance comparison valid?
introduction.
Promises that an LED product will deliver the same illumination on a target room surface, with less lumens, is a well worn marketing
Does the evaluation include all related peripheral factors?
approach. Assuming this is the case, without backing of photomet-
Implications on HVAC loads, the cost of connected circuits, and access
ric data and lighting calculations to prove the assumption, can—and
for maintenance are just a few operational considerations that need to
does—lead to serious application issues.
be fairly compared. Lamp disposal is an often missed issue related to
Marketing materials frequently make unfounded statements
fluorescent lamps, as is ballast replacement or cleaning requirements
based on intentional misdirection from facts, or to lead customers to
to maintain light levels. Failing to include the impact all lighting sys-
buy without evaluation. There is no substitute for accurate predictive
tems have on their environment will lead to selecting the lowest initial
evaluations using trustworthy photometric data.
cost product, resulting in higher actual applied costs.
While not every product needs to be over-thought or evaluated in depth, trusting gut feelings and marketing materials can lead to
Are all operational considerations included in the comparisons? Assuming an existing product has an infinite life, that needs no
significant errors in decision making, resulting in long term cost and expense beyond simplistic initial assumptions. When there is a shift in technology as large as that occurring with
replacement, then comparing that to the cost of changing to a new
the deployment of solid-state, it is important to revisit all assumptions
product—with installation costs included—is an obviously faulty
being made. Rules of thumb and general assumptions learned from
approach. Conversely, if an SSL product is to be replaced at the end of
years of familiarity with conventional sources requires a special effort
its useful life, this too, must be included. Failing to include these fac-
to revisit these assumptions as they apply to new products using very
tors will lead to the cheapest initial cost product, even if it results in
different science.
the greatest operational and applied cost.
Further, assuming that the latest technology is superior, because it is new and must be better, leads to serious failures in objectivity.
Are the risks of failure being considered?
Being aware of the presence and easy comfort non sequitur compari-
The risk of a product failure includes not only the cost to recover, but
sons present is a positive step toward avoiding their pitfalls.•
40 • 06.12 • architectural SSL
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ADVANCES
Product Introductions
Go Organic Panasonic has introduced a thin, narrow-frame, easyto-embed organic light emitting diode (OLED) module intended for use in applications where high color rendering is important. The units, marketed in North America by Universal Lighting Technologies, feature a color rendering index of ≥90 and emit very little UV or infrared radiation, making them especially useful in display settings with light-sensitive materials. Visit www.unvlt.com or Circle 306.
According to a recent report by SSL market observers, a number of manufacturers are focusing on light engines rather than the entire fixture, which allows for more design flexibility, and a more universal, potentially upgradable solution.
1 Color Rendering Option Xicato’s XLM 3000 Artist LED modules are engineered to enable fixtures with halogen-level color rendering and smooth, continuous dimming. The modules feature a CRI of 90+ and 95. Visit www. xicato.com or Circle 305.
2 On the Spot Bridgelux has engineered its new Cetero Spot
Light Module (SLM) to comply with the upcoming Zhaga spot-light specification, which is meant to aid interchangeability of LED light sources and connections. Modules will be available in late 2012. Visit www.bridgelux.com or Circle 304.
3 Totally Tubular New T5 tube-style LED lamps from LEDtronics are designed as direct replacements for 12V xenon and halogen T3/T4 subminiature glass lamps. Manufactured with a dual-pin G4 base, the lamps are available in 300K and 5500K color temperatures for use in pendants, undercabinet fixtures, step lights and other typical T3 and T4 halogen applications. Visit www.ledtronics.com or Circle 303.
42 • 06.12 • Architectural SSL
www.architecturalssl.com
Product Introductions
ADVANCES
Linear Thinking The CS Series LED Linear Luminaire delivers up to 120 lumens per watt, with a color rendering index of 90. The suspended design from Cree integrates an upward-facing LED light strip along with an ultralightweight upper reflector and the company’s proprietary MicroMixing Optics. Dimming control from 0-10V, to 5%, is a standard feature. Applications include super markets, showrooms, schools and offices in which linear fluorescents might otherwise be used. Visit www.cree.com or Circle 302.
“If the current demands of compliance and performance proof were placed on conventional products with the same diligence as SSL, today, the older technology would grind to a halt.”
4 LED Option The Plana family of recessed downlights by WAC Lighting features a 35-degree adjustable vertical tilt and are available in 2-, 4- and 6-in. apertures, and feature the company’s “Double Focus” feature with a proprietary elliptical reflector that allows a smaller aperture without compromising fixture efficiency or optical performance. Visit www. waclighting.com or Circle 301.
5 High Power Designed for powering and dimming high-power LED arrays in the range of 700mA to 2100mA, the THEA 30 and THEA 56 units from LumaStream feature an efficiency greater than 85%. Visit www.lumastream. com or Circle 300.
6 Direct MR16 Replacement The Definity MR16 HO LED lamp from Lighting Science Group is an 8W replacement for 50W halogen lamps for use in track, pendant and display fixtures, as well as recessed and task lighting applications. The lamp is designed for passive cooling, with no fans. Visit www.lsgc.com or Circle 299.
www.architecturalssl.com
Architectural SSL • 06.12 • 43
ADVANCES
Product Introductions
Third-Gen Solution The Series L7 LED luminaire from Lunera incorporates third-generation LED technology in 4-ft. and 8-ft. models that can be joined to create continuous, suspended lighting runs. An open technology platform allows integration into a variety of lighting-control systems. Units can be ordered to provide either 100% direct light or a mix of direct and ambient illumination, with either 3500K or 4000K color temperatures, with a color rendering index of 84. Visit www.lunera.com or Circle 298.
“Escalation in technological depth brings with it an inherent state of knowledge disparity. For customers, this causes confusion and complicates evaluation.”
1 Broad Compatibility Cooper Lighting has introduced a commercial line of recessed downlights for its halo label that are compatible with both tungsten halogen and selfballasted LEDi PAR lamps. The units provide access for junction box inspection and feature a device that opens the circuit if insulation is detected. Visit www.cooperlighting.com or Circle 297.
2 Driver for Success A new premium series of LED drivers from Thomas Research Products promises long life and an efficiency of 92%. Offered in constant-current and constant voltage versions, it can be ordered in wattages ranging from 40W to 150W, and their aluminum housings are IP67 rated for applications where moisture might be present. Visit www.trpssl.com or Circle 296.
3 Round Peg and Square hole Available in both round and square profiles, the new Evoke 2.9 G2 LED downlights are offered in color temperatures ranging from 2700K to 4000K, with 15- to 60-degree beam spreads. The Amerlux fixtures are designed with miniature 2.9-in. apertures. Visit www.amerlux.com or Circle 295.
44 • 06.12 • ARChITECTURAL SSL
www.architecturalssl.com
Product Introductions
ADVANCES
New Downlight Options Beyond Halogen lamp modules from No. 8 Lighting are Calif. Title 24 compliant and can be retrofitted into a range of the manufacturer’s existing fixtures. Fixed and adjustable (shown here) modules are available, both delivering 900 lumens at a color temperature of 3000K and offering a range of fieldinterchangeable beam spreads. The company’s proprietary dimming driver works with line voltage and standard electronic low-voltage dimmers. A range of trim options are available. Visit www.8lighting. com or Circle 294.
Dimming and Kelvin-shifting LED products are being developed—a boon to workplace productivity and employee health, as, instead of having to drink coffee when feeling groggy, such conditions can be addressed by simply adjusting the CCT and light level.
1 We’re Rolling Capturing the natural flow of Japanese origami in a wing-light sheet of laser-cut aluminum, the Kinetic luminaire is one of five new exterior fixtures in the Environmental Series by Troy Lighting. Kinetic is available in bronze, satin white and coastal (silver) finishes. Visit www.troy-lighting.com or Circle 293.
2 Tune it Yourself The new araya family of LED color tuning modules from Lumenetix can be color-tuned using the company’s wireless light commissioning tool and proprietary color-model software, so installations can be tuned and modified based on specific display requirements. Visit www.lumenetix.com or Circle 292.
3 On the Spot The DEIMOS spot luminaire from Zenaro incorporates two 25W LED lamps in a recessed luminaire with an integrated light control that generates beam angles of 15 degrees and 305 degrees. The fixture’s gimbaled suspension allows for additional adjustments. Color temperature options include a warm 2700K or neutral 3500K, both featuring a color rendering index of 80+. Visit www.zenarolighting.com or Circle 291
www.architecturalssl.com
Architectural SSL • 06.12 • 45
Ad Index
±DV§RTiS§R
∆§BSiT§
CiRCL§ ∑UµB§R
P±g§ ∑UµB§R
alanod / miro
www.alanod.com
Circle 13
IBC
B-K Lighting
www.bklighting.com
Circle 05
12
GE LIGHTING
www.gelightingsolutions.com
Circle 03
06
HUMANSCALE
www.humanscale.com
Circle 09
25
IALD
www.iald.org
INSIGHT LIGHTING
www.insightlighting.com
Circle 08
23
intematix
www.intematix.com
Circle 07
19
Kim Lighting / hubbell
www.kimlighting.com
Circle 14
BC
ledtronics
www.ledtronics.com
Circle 12
34
LIGHTSEARCH
www.lightsearch.com
Nora lighting
www.noralighting.com
Circle 04
09
philips gardco
sitelighting.com
Circle 10
27
RAB lighting
www.rabled.com
Circle 01
IFC-01
Seoul semiconductor
www.seoulsemicon.com, acriche.com
Circle 02
04
Sternberg Lighting
www.sternberglighting.com
Circle 06
13
The continuing architect
www.thecontinuingarchitect.com
USGBC
www.usgbc.org
zenaro lighting
www.zenarolighting.com
letters to the editor: Editor’s Note: Following are a couple of letters we re-
ceived looking for some advice. If you’ve got any ideas, please fire them back to jimc@architecturalssl.com and we’ll post them on SSL Interactive.
Everything in its Proper Place The articles in the May issue of SSL are exceptionally well written, as usual, but there is one comment: In the May Market Setting Feature, “Putting a Square Peg in the Square Hole,” (p. 16): under the section “Source Suitability,” it says that street lighting qualities are “less aesthetic.” Lighting is an art as well as a science. Putting a cobra lamp post on an historic street lined with authentic architecture, is not good design. It sends a wrong message about taste and appropriate choices. No matter whether interior or exterior, illumination should suit the decor and purpose. Best regards, Gersil N. Kay, IESNA, AIA/HRC Conservation Ltg. Int’l Ltd.
47
41 39 Circle 11
33
LLD Standard?
LED Lighting Question, Part 2
I am very interested to see an article on the appropriate lamp lumen depreciation (LLD) to use for interior general lighting applications. There are some disturbing calculations being generated by fellow manufacturers reps, as well as some SSL fixture manufacturers. I have my own opinion, but that, and a few bucks, will not buy much—here it is anyway: We cannot continue to sell the benefits of an L70 of 50,000 hours and use an LLD of 0.9. If a school is open for 2,100 hours a year— which is very conservative—a 0.9 LLD, in crude numbers, is only about 8 years. So, from year eight through 20, we will continue to go past what was calculated as “mean.” Cynically, I see sales and marketing people playing with calculations to justify the cost of the LED products.
I work in an events venue incorporating a lot of LED lighting. We have many weddings at the event, and of course, wedding videographers, who often have issues with the facility’s lighting. Our venues are set up like a stage with pipes and rigging and my dilemma is finding a fixture with a full spectrum output, like tungsten, that doesn’t have the peaks and valleys typical of common white LED emitters. Even the best white LEDs we’ve used have poor spectral “evenness,” for lack of a better word. The best theatrical-style fresnels—which are expensive—incorporate the ability to manually “mix” LEDs for color balance. Our business is all about memories and the videographers are that facilitator and I do not want to be the person on the ladder adjusting each fixture (daily) for that best tungsten approximation. That, of course, begs the question, once a preferred color balance has been “set,” will that color balance track with the changing of intensity? Again this is where the theater/stage performance thought pattern comes into play vs. the photographers’ 1/4, 1/2, and full-stop-neutral density filters being placed in front of their photo lights. Is this just me being lazy or can I be less frenetic, day of event?
Using an LLD in a high school project of 0.9 is wrong, but I cannot seem to find any concrete positions on what to do. The industry needs a standard—and quickly—before we have a landscape of under-lit commercial facilities. Sincerely, Roger Garcia Quality Lighting Systems, Inc.
46 • 06.12 • Architectural SSL
47
STILL Mystified in the midwest
www.architecturalssl.com
ANOTHER PERSON’S DARK SPACE IS OUR BLANK CANVAS. AN IALD PROFESSIONAL LIGHTING DESIGNER SEES THE POSSIBILITIES IN EVERY ENVIRONMENT. LEARN HOW AN IALD LIGHTING DESIGNER CAN TURN YOUR VISION INTO REALITY. VISIT IALD.ORG AND CLICK ON "FIND A LIGHTING DESIGNER" TO REFINE YOUR SEARCH.
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It works the way you think
SSL_4_2007_Ver1.indd 1
4/16/07 9:25:12 PM
SSlObserved:
By Kevin Willmorth
Lighting Events— Are We Reaching the Point of Over Saturation? Lightfair was a blow-out success— a real explosion of new displays and attendees vs marketing farf. It certainly shows manufacturers are feeling more confident—and could lead to even more regional events— but is there that much added value being produced?
Hannover Lighting show, now Light+Build. I was
every one presented as though they were the
sure I was going to die by the time I got through
leader of the pack, while the similarities between
that monster. My feet were so sore they went
them were muddied by the overwhelming vol-
numb. At the end of five days I was no longer able
ume of them.
to comprehend language that did not include ref-
In the midst of this were some interesting
erence to lumens or light in some way. I was lost
new things worth spending time on, amongst a
in a sea of light, people, massive displays, and
large number of component displays. This was
building after building of new names and faces,
also the year of very large displays—well beyond
on top of jet lag and hangovers from late night
what was the norm just a few years ago. There
beers and thick German food. It was great.
were tacky brand show-cities everywhere, all
The activities in lighting presentations have expanded exponentially over the 30 years since
white and glary. If the shows are any indication of an
Between Lightfair, Light+Build, Strategies in
that first Light World visit. From the growth of
economic recovery, we should be enjoying a
Light, LEDs, the LED Show, the DOE Confer-
regional events in the 1990s, to the explosion of
Renaissance period of massive proportions. More
ences, and literally dozens of other regional and
SSL focused events of the last seven years—while
likely, the presence was a sign that manufactur-
nationally focused events, it’s hard not to feel a
both Lightfair and Light+Build have ballooned
ers are feeling more hopeful now than they have
bit worn out. It’s not like each of the events was
continuously—it’s all become a bit incomprehen-
in the last few years, which is good. The problem
presenting new and critical information. In fact,
sible. In 2010, I was literally out of the office at
is, if this expands in the form of even more local,
after a while, they all start to feel like going to the
some conference, show or activity every month
regional, and expanded national shows, is there
mall—every mall and every store inside carrying
of the year—sometimes two in one trip—totaling
that much new value being produced? Is there
the same products, all pumped up and presented
thousands in expenses and hundreds of hours of
that much disposable expense money in the pock-
under bright banners and smiling enthusiastic
time. In 2011 I took a less aggressive approach,
ets of decision makers to attend these events?
sales people. It’s like having nothing but your
and still felt weathered by it.
favorite meal every day of the week. Even the
Lightfair, this year, was a real blowout suc-
One idea came to me while sipping my halfflat $12 soft drink to wash down my dry and taste-
best spread of tender cuts surrounded by fresh
cess. This was not the typical hyped-up market-
less $24 shrink-wrapped sandwich as I looked
greens gets old with enough repetition.
ing farf of years past, it was a real explosion in
across the sea of signs and bodies milling about.
displays and attendance. One of the reasons for
Perhaps there is a bigger business than lighting
World 2—or 3, I can’t actually remember. I took
this was the explosion of new SSL displays from
after all—building show displays for enthusiastic
away so many tons of literature, business cards,
new manufacturers. Another notable change
and marketing trinkets I had to buy a suitcase
was the height of displays and the proliferation
lighting manufacturers.•
at the hotel gift shop and check two bags in. I
of hanging banners and signs. This was the cir-
walked every aisle, every inch, for what seemed
cus of circuses, easily the largest ever to date. It
like miles of exhibits. Shortly after this experi-
was also withering. There were simply too many
ence, I landed in Hannover, Germany for my first
LED retrofit lamp displays to absorb. Each and
I remember my first lighting show, Light
48 • 06.12 • ArchitecturAl SSL
about the author:
Kevin Willmorth, a lighting expert and fixture designer, has been instrumental in helping create a vision and mission statement for Architectural SSL.
www.architecturalssl.com
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