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The lighting lab is focused on the benefits of daylight. Studies reveal that daylight conditions can limit the progression of myopia and generally have positive effects on visual and cognitive performance.
This observation is confirmed in practice by Claas Proske, Coordinator of Functional Vision Diagnostics and Assistive Technology, consulting at the LBZB: ‘In many cases, we find that people with visual impairments or visual limitations benefit greatly from higher levels of illumination. And when it comes to light colour, they tend to find neutral white or cool white light more pleasant.’
The lighting in the diagnostic room can reach up to 2400 lux via the flat C95 luminaires. This exceeds the usual illuminance levels, enhancing brightness and colour contrasts, reducing fatigue, and prolonging attention.
Lighting management system for precise control
The lighting management system (LMS) enables flexible and precise control of the lighting conditions. Using a tablet, the illuminance and light colour are individually adjusted and controlled via a specially configured web interface, accessible via Wi-Fi. The illuminance can be entered as a percentage dimming value, ranging up to 2400 lux, while the light colour can vary between 2700 K (warm white) and 6500 K (cool white). These adjustments are crucial because different light colours have distinct visual and psychological effects. Reports from LBZB clients indicate that cool white light (over 5300 K) enhances reading and concentration skills and is perceived as energising during the day.
Diagnostic assessment under optimised conditions
The diagnostic room at the LBZB enables testing of patients' individual visual and visual-cognitive functions under varying lighting conditions. Using specific testing procedures, such as preferential looking or the Lea-Hyvärinen tests (specifically designed for children who do not know how to read letters), as well as informal observations, detailed assessments of the use of visual, auditory, and haptic strategies can be obtained.
Thanks to the ability to individually adjust lighting conditions, the LBZB can also test specific visual functions, such as contrast sensitivity, under different lighting conditions. "This information is very valuable to us, as we can pass it on so that it can be implemented in the best possible way at the person's workplace," says Claas Proske of the LBZB. Overall, the implementation of this lighting concept at the LBZB demonstrates the importance of optimised artificial lighting in the diagnosis and support of people with visual impairments.
Positive effects of optimised lighting
The ability to adjust lighting conditions also offers a variety of positive effects for people without visual impairments. Improved illuminance and optimally coordinated light colour can significantly improve visual perception, reduce fatigue, and reduce headaches. Additionally, adapted lighting has a positive effect on the circadian rhythm by regulating melatonin production, which influences the sleep-wake cycle. This is particularly crucial because blue light with a high colour temperature suppresses the production of melatonin, thereby increasing alertness.