Energies

Research

Jump to: Review

21 pages, 7906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulations and Analysis of the Optimum Uniformity for Pedestrian Road Lighting Focusing on Energy Performance and Spill Light in the Roadside Environment

by Constantinos A. Bouroussis and Annika K. Jägerbrand

Energies 2022, 15(9), 2983; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15092983 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1654

Abstract

Road lighting uniformity is an essential lighting quality parameter for motorists and pedestrians and varies with lighting design parameters. Increased road lighting uniformity may result in benefits, such as increased reassurance and perceived safety for pedestrians or an increased overall visual perception. However, [...] Read more.

Road lighting uniformity is an essential lighting quality parameter for motorists and pedestrians and varies with lighting design parameters. Increased road lighting uniformity may result in benefits, such as increased reassurance and perceived safety for pedestrians or an increased overall visual perception. However, no previous study has investigated how road lighting uniformity varies with lighting design scenarios or how the uniformity of various lighting design scenarios affects other essential parameters, such as energy performance and obtrusive light. This study aimed to investigate: (I) how uniformity varies with different road lighting design scenarios, and (II) how uniformity correlates with energy performance and risk for increasing spill light. The study is limited to pedestrian roads. We performed photometric calculations in ReluxDesktop for more than 1.5 million cases with single-sided pole arrangements and for various geometries of road width, pole distance, pole height, overhang, and luminaire tilt. The results were analyzed with a set of five relevant metrics that were calculated and analyzed together with uniformity. For the evaluation, we used the minimum luminaire power needed to achieve an average illuminance of 10 lx, the power density indicator (D_P), edge illuminance ratio (R_EI), and we introduced two new indicators for spill light on the ground in the border areas: the extended edge illuminance ratio (extended R_EI) and the spill flux ratio (R_SF). The results show that increased uniformity levels may significantly increase energy consumption and spill light, but that both these impacts can be relatively controlled if uniformity is kept under certain limits. The investigated cases also demonstrated that improper lighting planning significantly increases adverse effects, such as spill light. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 3661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modelling of Luminous Flux Directed to the Upper Hemisphere from Electrical Substation before and after the Refurbishment of Lighting Systems

by Tomas Novak, Petr Becak, Roman Dubnicka, Jana Raditschova, Dionyz Gasparovsky, Pavel Valicek and Jiri Ullman

Energies 2022, 15(1), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010345 - 4 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1752

Abstract

This article deals with options for how to express the luminous flux from outdoor electrical substations of the electric transmission system. Processing of the models of light emissions before and after refurbishment of lighting systems was motivated by setting out rules for the [...] Read more.

This article deals with options for how to express the luminous flux from outdoor electrical substations of the electric transmission system. Processing of the models of light emissions before and after refurbishment of lighting systems was motivated by setting out rules for the design and erection of refurbished lighting systems in outdoor electrical substations, which are most commonly built in inhabited rural areas with low luminance of the background. The proposed model and calculations are based on requirements of international standards and recommendations for lighting of outdoor workplaces as well as on internal regulations of the ČEPS (Czech Transmission System Operator). These requirements are implemented in real electrical substations and lighting models that are extended by the calculation space of the software goniophotometer. The software goniophotometer was used to evaluate light distribution characteristics of entire electric stations in various situations. This article assesses the impact of different lighting systems installed at electrical substations from the perspective of both direct and total luminous flux directed to the upper hemisphere. It takes into account three outdoor electrical substations (420 kV) of a transmission network and their lighting systems before and after refurbishment. The aim of this article is to determine to what extent the electrical substations contribute to emissions of luminous flux to the upper hemisphere. Results from calculations on models show reduced radiation to the upper hemisphere up to 52.3% after refurbishment of obsolete lighting systems, although total installed flux actually increased due to a change in the ratio of direct and reflected luminous flux after refurbishment of lighting systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 7606 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seven Different Lighting Conditions in Photogrammetric Studies of a 3D Urban Mock-Up

by Katarzyna Bobkowska, Pawel Burdziakowski, Jakub Szulwic and Karolina M. Zielinska-Dabkowska

Energies 2021, 14(23), 8002; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14238002 - 30 Nov 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2201

Abstract

One of the most important elements during photogrammetric studies is the appropriate lighting of the object or area under investigation. Nevertheless, the concept of “adequate lighting” is relative. Therefore, we have attempted, based on experimental proof of concept (technology readiness level—TRL3), to verify [...] Read more.

One of the most important elements during photogrammetric studies is the appropriate lighting of the object or area under investigation. Nevertheless, the concept of “adequate lighting” is relative. Therefore, we have attempted, based on experimental proof of concept (technology readiness level—TRL3), to verify the impact of various types of lighting emitted by LED light sources for scene illumination and their direct influence on the quality of the photogrammetric study of a 3D urban mock-up. An important issue in this study was the measurement and evaluation of the artificial light sources used, based on illuminance (E), correlated colour temperature (CCT), colour rendering index (CRI) and Spectral power distribution (SPD) and the evaluation of the obtained point clouds (seven photogrammetric products of the same object, developed for seven different lighting conditions). The general values of the quality of the photogrammetric studies were compared. Additionally, we determined seventeen features concerning the group of tie-points in the vicinity of each F-point and the type of study. The acquired traits were related to the number of tie-points in the vicinity, their luminosities and spectral characteristics for each of the colours (red, green, blue). The dependencies between the identified features and the obtained XYZ total error were verified, and the possibility of detecting F-points depending on their luminosity was also analysed. The obtained results can be important in the process of developing a photogrammetric method of urban lighting monitoring or in selecting additional lighting for objects that are the subject of a short-range photogrammetric study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Lighting on Crime Counts

by Steve A. Fotios, Chloe J. Robbins and Stephen Farrall

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4099; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144099 - 7 Jul 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4051

Abstract

The influence of lighting on crime was investigated by considering the effect of ambient light level on crimes recorded in three US cities for the ten-year period 2010 to 2019. Crime counts were compared for similar times of day, before and after the [...] Read more.

The influence of lighting on crime was investigated by considering the effect of ambient light level on crimes recorded in three US cities for the ten-year period 2010 to 2019. Crime counts were compared for similar times of day, before and after the biannual clock change, therefore employing an abrupt change of light level but without an obvious intervention such as improving road lighting in an area. The results suggest a significant increase in robbery during darkness, confirming previous studies. The results also suggest darkness leads to an increase in arson and curfew loitering offenses, and to a decrease in disorderly conduct, family offences (non-violent) and prostitution. Future research investigating the effectiveness of improved street lighting should consider that this may not be beneficial for all types of crime. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

15 pages, 1689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Outdoor Lighting: Methods for Capturing the Pedestrian Experience in the Field

by Johan Rahm and Maria Johansson

Energies 2021, 14(13), 4005; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14134005 - 2 Jul 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2550

Abstract

This study assessed whether methods for capturing the pedestrian experience of outdoor lighting, previously evaluated in a full-scale laboratory, were applicable in a real-world setting. It applied an approach capturing the human response to outdoor lighting in a systematic way, by assessing perception, [...] Read more.

This study assessed whether methods for capturing the pedestrian experience of outdoor lighting, previously evaluated in a full-scale laboratory, were applicable in a real-world setting. It applied an approach capturing the human response to outdoor lighting in a systematic way, by assessing perception, evaluation and behaviour in the lit environment. The study involved 81 participants from two age groups (Young—n: 48, mean age: 26, 63% women; Elderly—n: 33, mean age: 69, 67% women) and was carried out on a pedestrian path in a park in the centre of Malmö, Sweden, in the evenings during wintertime. Two LED lighting applications, differing in light distribution, uniformity and horizontal illuminance, were presented, and the pedestrians’ perception (facial expression recognition and sign reading), evaluation (arousal, valence and perceived outdoor lighting quality) and behaviour (pedestrian flow) were assessed. The results from the perceptual tasks differed significantly between the lighting applications, in favour of the lighting application with greatest uniformity and horizontal illuminance. There was a significant difference in sign reading distance between the two age groups. The methods applied in this study are feasible to administer and could be used to assess lighting solutions in order to capture the needs of vulnerable groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 9745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Street Lighting Efficiency Using a Mobile Measurement System

by Piotr Tomczuk, Marcin Chrzanowicz, Piotr Jaskowski and Marcin Budzynski

Energies 2021, 14(13), 3872; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14133872 - 27 Jun 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2556

Abstract

The issue concerns the initial stage of work on a method for performing a rapid assessment of the energy efficiency and illuminance of a street lighting installation. The proposed method is based on simultaneous measurement of illuminance from three lux meters placed on [...] Read more.

The issue concerns the initial stage of work on a method for performing a rapid assessment of the energy efficiency and illuminance of a street lighting installation. The proposed method is based on simultaneous measurement of illuminance from three lux meters placed on the roof of the vehicle. The data are acquired in road traffic, while the vehicle is driving. The proposed solution will allow in the future to quickly and reproducibly obtain data about the lighting parameters of the studied road section. The illumination values are localised using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). Based on the collected measurement data, with the use of terrain maps, geographic information system (GIS) data and installation design documentation, it will be possible to determine in detail the parameters of energy efficiency indicators for a selected section of the street for the entire street according to the EN13201-5 standard. Preliminary tests were conducted on a section of about one kilometer of street illuminated in class C3. Detailed measurements reveal high variation of obtained energy indicators D_P and D_E for each road section. The reason for this condition is the variation of power, installation geometry and the presence of obstacles to light. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4803 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Electric Bridge Lighting at Night on Mayfly Activity

by Dorukalp Durmus, Julian Wang, Shawn Good and Benjamin Basom

Energies 2021, 14(10), 2934; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14102934 - 19 May 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3861

Abstract

Phototactic and polarotactic aquatic insects, such as mayflies, can be drawn to electric lighting on bridges at night. Past research investigating the effect of light intensity, polarization, and spectrum on mayflies suggests that a combination of different techniques can reduce the number of [...] Read more.

Phototactic and polarotactic aquatic insects, such as mayflies, can be drawn to electric lighting on bridges at night. Past research investigating the effect of light intensity, polarization, and spectrum on mayflies suggests that a combination of different techniques can reduce the number of mayflies attracted to bridges. Here, various lighting strategies are systematically tested on Veterans Memorial Bridge in Pennsylvania to investigate the effect of lighting on mayflies and address safety concerns caused by their mass crowding. Isolated trials on different parts of the bridge tested the effectiveness of correlated color temperature, chromaticity, ultraviolet radiation, shielding, and polarization. Results indicate that mayflies were more attracted to ultraviolet radiation, blue and green light, and polarized light than other lighting conditions. Shielding was minimally effective in reducing the number of mayflies on the bridge when supported by the change in light source spectrum. While the correlated color temperature did not result in a statistically significant impact, the spectral power distribution of the light sources was a major influencer for mayfly activity. Future research should investigate the effect of radiant intensity and timing on mayfly activity. Smart solid-state lighting systems and controls can also be used to adjust the light levels when needed to reduce adverse effects on aquatic insects and aid traffic safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 5179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation and Analysis of Floodlighting Based on 3D Computer Graphics

by Rafał Krupiński

Energies 2021, 14(4), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14041042 - 16 Feb 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2337

Abstract

The paper presents the opportunities to apply computer graphics in an object floodlighting design process and in an analysis of object illumination. The course of object floodlighting design has been defined based on a virtual three-dimensional geometric model. The problems related to carrying [...] Read more.

The paper presents the opportunities to apply computer graphics in an object floodlighting design process and in an analysis of object illumination. The course of object floodlighting design has been defined based on a virtual three-dimensional geometric model. The problems related to carrying out the analysis of lighting, calculating the average illuminance, luminance levels and determining the illuminated object surface area are also described. These parameters are directly tied with the calculations of the Floodlighting Utilisation Factor, and therefore, with the energy efficiency of the design as well as the aspects of light pollution of the natural environment. The paper shows how high an impact of the geometric model of the object has on the accuracy of photometric calculations. Very often the model contains the components that should not be taken into account in the photometric calculations. The research on what influence the purity of the geometric mesh of the illuminated object has on the obtained results is presented. It shows that the errors can be significant, but it is possible to optimise the 3D object model appropriately in order to receive the precise results. For the example object presented in this paper, removing the planes that do not constitute its external surface has caused a two-fold increase in the average illuminance and average luminance. This is dangerous because a designer who wants to achieve a specific average luminance level in their design without optimizing the model will obtain the luminance values that will actually be much higher. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

20 pages, 3374 KiB

Open AccessReview

Perceived Lighting Uniformity on Pedestrian Roads: From an Architectural Perspective

by Ulrika Wänström Lindh and Annika K. Jägerbrand

Energies 2021, 14(12), 3647; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14123647 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2866

Abstract

Lighting uniformity is a key factor in traffic safety, and it could even result in energy savings for light installations. However, highly uniform horizontal road lighting for motorized vehicles may not be optimal for pedestrian roads. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the [...] Read more.

Lighting uniformity is a key factor in traffic safety, and it could even result in energy savings for light installations. However, highly uniform horizontal road lighting for motorized vehicles may not be optimal for pedestrian roads. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the way in which pedestrians experience road lighting uniformity. Accordingly, we employed a qualitative approach to examine pedestrian road lighting uniformity. Visual analyses were used to exemplify and discuss the perceived uniformity. The case studies were performed on three pedestrian roads with similar light installations. The results show that the experience of road lighting uniformity differs substantially between the three roads. Based on the case studies, there are many aspects that need to be considered beyond the light falling on the horizontal surfaces. This study suggests that the visual experience of road lighting uniformity for pedestrians is difficult to estimate with photometric values because the visual impact of uniformity is highly influenced by the spatial context and landscape. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research in Several Aspects of Outdoor Lighting: Energy, Sustainability, Safety, and Visual Perception)

► Show Figures