Lighting

Humans need light not only to see but also for their biorhythms

Workplaces need to have as much daylight as possible and be equipped with suitable artificial lighting. The quality of this artificial light depends on various characteristics, particularly level of illumination, luminance distribution, glare-free illumination, shade, light colour and colour rendering. The required level of these characteristics varies depending on the visual task being performed. For example, high-precision assembly work requires high levels of illumination so that small details can be seen properly; colour checks need very good colour rendering; and where surface textures need to be seen clearly, directional light is required to create shadows.

In this interactive facility, participants can experience for themselves how differences in individual characteristics affect visual perception.

Facility resources and features

• Various lights and luminaires
• Height-adjustable ceilings with integrated lights
• Demonstration units for light colour, colour rendering and stroboscopic effect
• Devices for measuring illuminance, luminance distribution and light colour

Topics covered

• Difference between illuminance and luminance distribution
• Demarcation between direct and reflected glare
• Influence of direct and indirect lighting on shadow
• Effect of different ceiling and luminaire heights
• Light colour and colour rendering of various bulb types
• Measurement and assessment of workplace lighting (e.g. in workshops or offices)
• Importance of daylight in the workplace