LIGHTING ENGINEERING DESIGN

by EDWARD AZUKAEME
(PORT HARCOURT)

This branch of engineering is very distinct from Electrical engineering for it encompasses Electrical Engineering, Architectural, Fine Arts and to some extent, medical knowledge viz a vi the application of a particular spectrum of light in the art of healing.
So, in the Lighting Engineering Design, the aesthetics that blends with the architectural concepts, the ambience for well being and the safety/energy saving issues are all taken into consideration in all design stages. There are three core values that must be individually and collectively considered by the Lighting Engineering Designer
1. Performance:
Providing the best visual effectiveness
2. Efficiency:
Minimising the use of energy, CO2 emissions and waste.
3. Comfort and Health
Giving people satisfaction, stimulation and well being
Gone are the days when lighting is simply calculating the luminance on a workplane alone either on our road ways or inside the buildings. Lighting concepts are now primarily judged according to their energy efficiency and performance as well as their modern design, ease of installation and most importantly, how healthy the light is. The basis for every lighting design concept is an analysis of the project; the tasks the lighting
is expected to fulfil, the conditions and special features. A quantitative design concept can to
a large extent follow the standards laid down for a specific task. Standards dictate the illuminance level, the degree of glare limitation, the luminous colour
and colour rendering. Tasks must be identified and appropriate lighting solutions designed taking into consideration the various trades statutory requirement and the environment.