Building Illumination Techniques SHORT ANSWER

Questions and Answers

What are some common design misconceptions related to building illumination lighting systems?

Some common design misconceptions related to building illumination lighting systems include: 1) Narrow spot lights creating shadows, 2) Too many spot and ceiling lights hindering the details of the human face, 3) Using the same lighting level regardless of the activity and function inside the space, 4) Not using enough accent lights on important objects, 5) Using lights that have a high probability of creating glare, and 6) Overuse of decorative lights.

What are some potential issues with using narrow spot lights in building illumination?

Using narrow spot lights can create shadows, which may not be desirable in certain areas of a building. Additionally, an overabundance of narrow spot lights can hinder the details of the human face, impacting the overall illumination and ambiance of the space.

Why is it important to use accent lights on important objects in building illumination?

Using accent lights on important objects in building illumination is important because it helps draw attention to these objects and adds depth to the overall lighting design. Without accent lights, important objects such as paintings may not receive the necessary illumination to be properly showcased within the space.

Explain the process by which light is emitted in an incandescent lamp, and how the color temperature of the light changes with the current.

In an incandescent lamp, light is emitted by electrically heating a tungsten filament until it is reddish-white hot. By increasing the current, the filament gets hotter and the light gets whiter, resulting in a higher color temperature. Signup and view all the answers

What is the melting point of tungsten, and at what temperature does the tungsten filament in a typical incandescent light bulb operate?

The melting point of tungsten is 3422 $^\circ$C. The tungsten filament in a typical incandescent light bulb operates at approximately 2500 $^\circ$C. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how incandescent lamps wear out and eventually stop working.

Incandescent lamps wear out as the tungsten filament evaporates and condenses on the inside of the bulb, causing the darkening of the glass. Eventually, as the filament gets thinner, it breaks. Signup and view all the answers

Provide an example and explain the meaning of the labeling '60A19' on an incandescent lamp.

The labeling '60A19' on an incandescent lamp means the lamp has a wattage of 60W, a bulb shape denoted by 'A', and a maximum bulb diameter of 2.375 inches (19 ÷ 8 = 2.375). Signup and view all the answers

Explain the major advancements in electric lighting and their impact on the industry.

The major advancements in electric lighting include the development of fluorescent lamps and high-intensity discharge lamps (mercury, metal halide, high-pressure sodium). These advancements have improved energy efficiency, light output, and color appearance, leading to widespread adoption in various applications. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a ballast in discharge lamps, and how are traditional ballasts being replaced?

A ballast in discharge lamps ignites and regulates the electric current. Traditional ballasts are being replaced by more efficient electronic ballasts. Signup and view all the answers

How do fluorescent lamps work, and what is the role of the phosphor coating inside the tube?

Fluorescent lamps work by generating ultraviolet radiation in low-pressure mercury vapor, which is then converted into visible light by a phosphor coating inside the tube. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main diameters of fluorescent lamps, and how do they differ?

The main diameters of fluorescent lamps are T12, T8, and T5. They differ in size, color, wattage, and shape. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the basic principle of operation of LEDs.

LEDs are basic pn-junction diodes that emit light when activated. They are suitable for producing pure colored light for decorative or communication purposes. Signup and view all the answers

What are the major functions of luminaires in the context of electric lighting?

Luminaires support the lamp, supply power, and modify light to achieve a desired pattern and reduce glare. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the mounting of luminaires crucial for controlling light distribution?

The mounting of luminaires is crucial for controlling light distribution, with direct components suitable for high illumination levels over large areas but may cause glare. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of a sizable direct component in luminaires on lighting quality and glare?

Luminaires with a sizable direct component are suitable for high illumination levels over large areas but may cause glare, whereas shielded light is better for lighting quality. Signup and view all the answers

How are luminaires categorized based on light distribution?

Luminaires are categorized based on light distribution, with different types for distributing light up or down, influencing the lighting effect. Signup and view all the answers

What are halogen incandescent lamps, and where are they commonly used?

Halogen incandescent lamps use halogen elements to extend filament life and produce intense light. They are popular for automotive headlights and spotlights. Signup and view all the answers

What are high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, and what are their advantages?

High-intensity discharge (HID) lamps emit light from a small arc tube inside a protective outer bulb and include metal halide lamps for improved color appearance and light output. Signup and view all the answers

How do traditional ballasts in discharge lamps differ from electronic ballasts in terms of efficiency and function?

Traditional ballasts are less efficient than electronic ballasts, which are being replaced due to their improved efficiency in igniting and regulating the electric current. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the cut-off angle required for a standing man's illumination technique.

The cut-off angle should be at least 45° for a standing man's illumination technique. Signup and view all the answers

What are some techniques to improve the quality of lighting from direct fixtures?

Baffles, louvers, eggcrate devices, parabolic louvers, lenses, prisms, and reflectors can be used to improve the quality of lighting from direct fixtures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the effectiveness of parabolic louvers in preventing glare and veiling reflections?

Parabolic louvers are effective in preventing direct glare but do not solve the problem of veiling reflections on horizontal surfaces. Signup and view all the answers

How many generic types can lighting systems be divided into? Name them.

Lighting systems can be divided into six generic types: general, localized, ambient, task, highlighting, and decorative lighting. Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of general lighting?

General lighting usually consists of uniformly spaced, ceiling-mounted direct lighting fixtures, providing flexibility in arranging work areas but with low energy efficiency and veiling reflections. Signup and view all the answers

Describe localized lighting.

Localized lighting features non-uniform arrangement with concentrated lighting fixtures over work areas, offering higher energy efficiency and reduced veiling reflections. Signup and view all the answers

What is ambient lighting suitable for, and how is it achieved?

Ambient lighting is diffused, low-illumination lighting reflected off the ceiling and walls, suitable for easy visual tasks and circulation, with the possibility of being used in conjunction with task lighting. Signup and view all the answers

What are the advantages of task lighting?

Task lighting is flexible, offers better light quality and high energy efficiency, and is complemented with ambient lighting. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of highlighting (accent) lighting, and how does its intensity compare to surrounding light level?

Highlighting (accent) lighting is used to highlight objects or parts of buildings and should be about ten times higher than the surrounding light level. Signup and view all the answers

Provide examples of accent lighting.

Examples of accent lighting include spotlights and wall-washers. Signup and view all the answers

What does decorative lighting involve and what are some examples?

Decorative lighting involves lamps and fixtures that are the object to be viewed, such as chandeliers, and can also supply functional lighting in most cases. Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of task/ambient lighting?

Task/ambient lighting is the most sustainable and highest-quality lighting, using less energy than standard lighting and allowing individual control. Signup and view all the answers

Using too many spot and ceiling lights hinder the details of the human face in building illumination design is a common misconception.

True Signup and view all the answers

The use of the same lighting level regardless of the activity and function inside the space is considered a common design misconception in building illumination.

True Signup and view all the answers

Overuse of decorative lights is not considered a common design misconception in building illumination.

False Signup and view all the answers

An incandescent lamp emits light by electrically heating a tungsten filament until it is reddish-white hot

True Signup and view all the answers

The melting point of tungsten is 3422 C, and a typical incandescent light bulb operates at approximately 2500 C

True Signup and view all the answers

Incandescent lamps wear out as the tungsten filament evaporates and condenses on the inside of the bulb, causing the darkening of the glass

True Signup and view all the answers

The labeling '60A19' on an incandescent lamp indicates a 60 Wattage with a maximum bulb diameter of 2.375 inches

False Signup and view all the answers

Parabolic louvers are effective in preventing direct glare and solve the problem of veiling reflections on horizontal surfaces.

False Signup and view all the answers

Localized lighting features a non-uniform arrangement with concentrated lighting fixtures over work areas.

True Signup and view all the answers

Ambient lighting is suitable for easy visual tasks and circulation.

True Signup and view all the answers

Task lighting offers better light quality and high energy efficiency.

True Signup and view all the answers

Highlighting (accent) lighting should be about five times higher than the surrounding light level.

False Signup and view all the answers

Decorative lighting only involves lamps and fixtures that are the object to be viewed.

False Signup and view all the answers

Task/ambient lighting uses more energy than standard lighting.

False Signup and view all the answers

General lighting usually consists of uniformly spaced, ceiling-mounted direct lighting fixtures.

True Signup and view all the answers

Quality of lighting from direct fixtures can be improved by various techniques such as baffles, louvers, eggcrate devices, parabolic louvers, lenses, prisms, and reflectors.

True Signup and view all the answers

Building illumination systems can be divided into six generic types.

True Signup and view all the answers

The cut-off angle for a setting man should be at least 45°.

False Signup and view all the answers

Parabolic louvers are effective in preventing direct glare.

True Signup and view all the answers

Fluorescent lamps work by generating visible light directly from the electric current without the need for a ballast.

False Signup and view all the answers

High-intensity discharge (HID) lamps emit light from a small arc tube inside a protective outer bulb.

True Signup and view all the answers

Traditional ballasts for discharge lamps are being replaced by more efficient electronic ballasts.

True Signup and view all the answers

Luminaires are not involved in modifying light to achieve desired patterns and reduce glare.

False Signup and view all the answers

LEDs are not suitable for producing pure colored light for decorative or communication purposes.

False Signup and view all the answers

Luminaires with a sizable direct component are suitable for high illumination levels over large areas and do not cause glare.

False Signup and view all the answers

Halogen incandescent lamps use halogen elements to extend filament life and produce intense light, and are popular for automotive headlights and spotlights.

True Signup and view all the answers

Fluorescent lamps come in only one size, color, wattage, and shape, with T12 being the main diameter.

False Signup and view all the answers

Luminaires have only two major functions: supporting the lamp and supplying power.

False Signup and view all the answers

Mounting of luminaires is not crucial for controlling light distribution.

False Signup and view all the answers

Luminaires are not categorized based on light distribution.

False Signup and view all the answers

LEDs are basic pn-junction diodes that emit light when activated.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common design misconception in building illumination lighting systems?

The use of the same lighting level regardless of the activity and function inside the space Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of not using enough accent lights on important objects in building illumination design?

Lack of emphasis on important objects Signup and view all the answers

What is a common design misconception related to decorative lighting in building illumination?

Overuse of decorative lights Signup and view all the answers

What is the melting point of tungsten, and at what temperature does the tungsten filament in a typical incandescent light bulb operate?

Melting point of tungsten is $3422^ ext{o}C$, and the filament operates at approximately $2500^ ext{o}C$ Signup and view all the answers

What does the labeling '60A19' on an incandescent lamp signify?

60: Wattage (60 W) A: Bulb shape 19: Maximum bulb diameter, in eighths of an inch Signup and view all the answers

How do incandescent lamps wear out and eventually stop working?

The tungsten filament evaporates and condenses on the inside of the bulb, causing darkening of the glass, and eventually breaks Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of a General Lighting Service (GLS) lamp?

It is a form of incandescent lamp with standard characteristics Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum cut-off angle for lighting for a standing man?

45° Signup and view all the answers

Which lighting technique is effective in preventing direct glare but does not solve the problem of veiling reflections on horizontal surfaces?

Parabolic louvers Signup and view all the answers

How many generic types can lighting systems be divided into?

Six Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of accent lighting?

To highlight objects or parts of buildings Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lighting is suitable for easy visual tasks and circulation, and can be used in conjunction with task lighting?

Ambient lighting Signup and view all the answers

What type of lighting offers better light quality, high energy efficiency, and is complemented with ambient lighting?

Task lighting Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of parabolic louvers in lighting?

Prevent direct glare Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lighting is suitable for uniformly spaced, ceiling-mounted direct lighting fixtures, providing flexibility in arranging work areas but with low energy efficiency and veiling reflections?

General lighting Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of decorative lighting?

To be the object to be viewed Signup and view all the answers

What is the most sustainable and highest-quality lighting, using less energy than standard lighting and allowing individual control?

Task/ambient lighting Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended minimum cut-off angle for lighting for a setting man?

30° Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lighting is divided into six generic types including general, localized, ambient, task, highlighting, and decorative lighting?

General lighting Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Building Illumination Techniques

For a standing man, the cut-off angle should be at least 45°, and for a setting man, it should be at least 30°.
Quality of lighting from direct fixtures can be improved by various techniques such as baffles, louvers, eggcrate devices, parabolic louvers, lenses, prisms, and reflectors.
Parabolic louvers are effective in preventing direct glare but do not solve the problem of veiling reflections on horizontal surfaces.
Lighting systems can be divided into six generic types: general, localized, ambient, task, highlighting, and decorative lighting.
General lighting usually consists of uniformly spaced, ceiling-mounted direct lighting fixtures, providing flexibility in arranging work areas but with low energy efficiency and veiling reflections.
Localized lighting features non-uniform arrangement with concentrated lighting fixtures over work areas, offering higher energy efficiency and reduced veiling reflections.
Ambient lighting is diffused, low-illumination lighting reflected off the ceiling and walls, suitable for easy visual tasks and circulation, with the possibility of being used in conjunction with task lighting.
Task lighting is flexible, offers better light quality and high energy efficiency, and is complemented with ambient lighting.
Highlighting (accent) lighting is used to highlight objects or parts of buildings and should be about ten times higher than the surrounding light level.
Examples of accent lighting include spotlights and wall-washers.
Decorative lighting involves lamps and fixtures that are the object to be viewed, such as chandeliers, and can also supply functional lighting in most cases.
Task/ambient lighting is the most sustainable and highest-quality lighting, using less energy than standard lighting and allowing individual control.

Electric Lighting and Luminaires Overview

Halogen incandescent lamps use halogen elements to extend filament life and produce intense light, popular for automotive headlights and spotlights.
Major advancements in electric lighting came with the development of fluorescent lamps and high-intensity discharge lamps (mercury, metal halide, high-pressure sodium).
Discharge lamps, including fluorescent lamps, require a ballast to ignite and regulate the electric current; traditional ballasts are being replaced by more efficient electronic ballasts.
Fluorescent lamps work by generating ultraviolet radiation in low-pressure mercury vapor, converted into visible light by a phosphor coating inside the tube.
Fluorescent lamps come in various sizes, colors, wattages, and shapes, with T12, T8, and T5 being the main diameters.
High-intensity discharge (HID) lamps emit light from a small arc tube inside a protective outer bulb and include metal halide lamps for improved color appearance and light output.
LEDs are basic pn-junction diodes that emit light when activated, suitable for producing pure colored light for decorative or communication purposes.
Luminaires support the lamp, supply power, and modify light to achieve desired patterns and reduce glare, with different categories based on light distribution.
Mounting of luminaires is crucial for controlling light distribution, with direct components suitable for high illumination levels over large areas but may cause glare.
Luminaires with a sizable direct component are suitable for high illumination levels over large areas, but may cause glare, whereas shielded light is better for lighting quality.
Luminaires have three major functions: supporting the lamp, supplying power, and modifying light to achieve a desired pattern and reduce glare.
Luminaires are categorized based on light distribution, with different types for distributing light up or down, influencing the lighting effect.

Building Illumination Techniques

For a standing man, the cut-off angle should be at least 45°, and for a setting man, it should be at least 30°.
Quality of lighting from direct fixtures can be improved by various techniques such as baffles, louvers, eggcrate devices, parabolic louvers, lenses, prisms, and reflectors.
Parabolic louvers are effective in preventing direct glare but do not solve the problem of veiling reflections on horizontal surfaces.
Lighting systems can be divided into six generic types: general, localized, ambient, task, highlighting, and decorative lighting.
General lighting usually consists of uniformly spaced, ceiling-mounted direct lighting fixtures, providing flexibility in arranging work areas but with low energy efficiency and veiling reflections.
Localized lighting features non-uniform arrangement with concentrated lighting fixtures over work areas, offering higher energy efficiency and reduced veiling reflections.
Ambient lighting is diffused, low-illumination lighting reflected off the ceiling and walls, suitable for easy visual tasks and circulation, with the possibility of being used in conjunction with task lighting.
Task lighting is flexible, offers better light quality and high energy efficiency, and is complemented with ambient lighting.
Highlighting (accent) lighting is used to highlight objects or parts of buildings and should be about ten times higher than the surrounding light level.
Examples of accent lighting include spotlights and wall-washers.
Decorative lighting involves lamps and fixtures that are the object to be viewed, such as chandeliers, and can also supply functional lighting in most cases.
Task/ambient lighting is the most sustainable and highest-quality lighting, using less energy than standard lighting and allowing individual control.

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