Lighting Control

Lighting control is fundamentally about having the right light in the right place at the right time. We don’t see it as complicated technology, but as a tool for creating spaces that truly work for the people who use them. By actively managing the lighting, you can adapt the light to different needs while optimising lighting operation according to the requirements of the space. So rather than simply switching lights on and off, modern lighting control systems add a new dimension of functionality and comfort to both homes and workplaces.

How Does Lighting Control Work?

A lighting control system connects luminaires with different types of devices, such as sensors and dimmers, and can also be controlled via an app. The system sends signals to the luminaires to adjust light levels or colour temperature based on, for example, preset scenes, occupancy or the amount of daylight. This can be done using wired protocols such as DALI or KNX, or wirelessly via technologies such as Bluetooth. By adapting the lighting to different needs, lighting control can help ensure that lighting is used when and where it is needed.

Common Types of Lighting Control for Luminaires

There are several methods of lighting control, ranging from simple manual dimming to advanced intelligent lighting systems. Each method offers benefits depending on the function of the space and its specific requirements.

Manual Dimming: The simplest form of lighting control, where brightness is adjusted manually using a rotary dimmer or push-button control.

Sensor-Based Control: The system uses occupancy detection to switch lights on when someone enters a room and off after a period of inactivity. Daylight harvesting is another variation, where sensors measure natural daylight levels and automatically adjust artificial lighting to maintain consistent illumination.

Wireless App Control: This solution offers a high degree of flexibility. Users can create schedules, control individual luminaires or groups, and set lighting scenes directly from an app. It is a common feature in connected lighting systems for homes and other environments.

DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface): A sophisticated and standardized protocol that provides individual control of every luminaire within a system. It is scalable and commonly used in larger installations such as offices, schools, and commercial buildings.

Where Is Lighting Control Suitable?

Well-designed lighting control can be used in many different environments. By adapting lighting to activities, occupancy and time of day, you can create a lighting environment that meets different needs while adapting lighting operation to current conditions and requirements.

In the office: Lighting control can adapt the lighting to activities and occupancy. Sensors can control when and where light is needed, while circadian lighting control can vary the colour temperature throughout the day.

At home: Smart lighting allows you to create different lighting scenes for, for example, dinner, a movie night or cleaning, and control the lighting via an app or voice control.

In public spaces: In corridors, stairwells and car parks, occupancy control can adapt the lighting to when people are present in the space. This can reduce the amount of time the lighting is on when the space is not in use, while also contributing to lighting levels that are adapted to how the space is being used.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lighting Control

What Is Lighting Control?

Lighting control is a system used to manage and adapt lighting. It can range from simple dimming solutions to advanced automation involving sensors, scheduling, and intelligent controls.

How Much Energy Can I Save with Lighting Control?

Savings vary depending on the installation, usage patterns and type of control system. Occupancy- and daylight-based controls can contribute to reduced energy use for lighting.

What Is DALI?

DALI stands for Digital Addressable Lighting Interface. It is a global standard for the digital control of lighting in professional installations.

What Are the Benefits of DALI Lighting Control?

DALI offers individual addressing of each luminaire, two-way communication for diagnostics and fault reporting, and an open protocol architecture, providing flexibility in the planning, operation and management of lighting systems.