October 2017

The energy savings potential of networked lighting controls has attracted interest from utilities, prompting the DesignLights Consortium (DLC) to develop a market transformation program that may prove a game changer in the industry.

Espen Technology’s 2X2 and 2X4 VersaKIT LED Flat Panel Retrofit Kits offer DLC listing, even light distribution and a five-year warranty. Featuring Espen drivers and modules, the flat panel retrofit comes completely assembled, utilizes the existing troffer housing to reduce labor time & expense, and can be installed from below the ceiling.

The Illuminating Engineering Society recently announced a new webinar program designed to give members, educators and the general public access to information about quality lighting. The video recordings in the series can be used for IES Section Meetings, as an instructional supplement for introductory lighting courses in post-secondary settings, and for those who are interested in knowing more about lighting.

Solemma is working with sleep scientists at the Alertness CRC in Australian to develop circadian lighting design software geared to architects and lighting professionals. Called ALFA, the software will be demonstrated as a prototype at DIVA Day 2017 on October 27 at the University of California – Berkeley.

With all geographic regions and building project sectors showing positive conditions, there continues to be a heightened level of demand for design services signaled in the latest Architecture Billings Index (ABI). The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the August ABI score was 53.7, up from a score of 51.9 in the previous month.

Flicker is an old lighting issue diminished by the mass adoption of fluorescent electronic ballasts and returned with the advent of LED sources. Photometric flicker is the modulation of light source intensity or output over time. Here’s an update on industry efforts to tackle the challenge, with a focus on the recently published NEMA standard.

IOTA’s ETS-DR emergency lighting control device for auxiliary generator and inverter supplies features the company’s “DR” dimming relay feature for 0-10V dimming applications. The ETS-DR allows for local switching or dimming controls on designated fixtures powered by an auxiliary supply. This eliminates the need for night lights or “always-on” fixtures.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Paul Scheidt, Product Marketing Manager, LED Components, Cree. The topic: light and color.

Idaho has created a new International Dark Sky Park at Craters of the Moon National Monument.