A recent study in LEUKOS, the Journal of the Illuminating Engineering Society, explores optimising overhead LED lighting to enhance comfort and illumination quality.
Conducted by researchers from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, the study investigates how spectral power distributions (SPD) and background luminance affect glare perception through the position index, a metric evaluating light placement relative to the observer’s line of sight. “Traditionally, light sources above 55° were not considered to cause glare, but the study reveals that sources at 60° or 80° are perceptible and impact glare,” says the research team.
Key findings include reducing blue light emissions from LEDs can decrease discomfort glare, making lighting more comfortable while maintaining functionality, and that the position index helps determine optimal angles for LED placement to minimise direct glare, enhancing visual comfort and energy efficiency.
“Balancing background luminance with light source brightness reduces glare, improving user experience, and adaptive lighting systems that adjust in real-time can maintain consistent visual comfort and energy efficiency,” says the team, adding that “prediction models are able to analyse variables influencing visual comfort, aiding designers in minimising glare while ensuring adequate illumination”.
This study provides actionable strategies for designing more comfortable and efficient LED lighting environments, emphasizing both energy efficiency and visual comfort.
Source: www.worldlightingnews.com