Centralized Lighting Systems for Office Interiors

This paper describes a novel light distribution concept that uses a centralized distribution system, which is optically connected (with light guides) to a series of integrated work stations. The system uses a single HID source with a series of light guides over each task plane. This centralized lighting/work station maintains illuminance and contrast independent of occlusion effects from furniture and body shadow, while increasing the efficiency of light delivery to the task plane. Using a single HID to illuminate multiple task planes can reduce the number of lamps required leading to reduced mercury recovery costs associated with fluorescent lighting systems as well as reduced energy consumption. This concept also has the potential to reduce the costs of both materials and maintenance.