To Simes innovation means shaping a vision
and developing continuous excellence.
It means serving architecture, making
luminaires that are a tangible summary of
the following concepts:
- solidity and duration over time, guaranteed
through the use of innovative materials and
processes;
- elegance of forms and design of objects
and minimal volumes to adapt to any
environment;
- quality of light, as a result of a set of
factors that determine the choice of fixtures
and the type of effect required.
Luminous efficiency, in other words the
ratio between luminous flux and power
absorption
(lm/W),
is
an
important
parameter but it cannot be the only criteria
to define quality. The maximum luminous
efficiency is obtained by measuring only
the LED source and is known as “nominal
flux”. The LED source inside a fixture
with an optical system causes a natural
dispersion and therefore a reduction in its
efficiency (Luminaire luminous flux).
The colour rendering index or CRI is a very
important characteristic that needs to be
considered as it indicates the ability of a
light source to reveal different colours, tones
and colour shades of objects in the most
realistic and natural fashion. A high colour
rendering index (CRI>90) corresponds to
a lower luminous efficiency. For outdoor
lighting applications a CRI of 70 or 80 is
often used as it is wrongly assumed that a
lower colour rendering index is sufficient
for outdoor lighting. Simes believes that
our private outdoor spaces are simply an
extension of our indoor living areas. These
areas therefore require superior colour
rendering index levels even at the cost of
luminous efficiency.
The colour temperature of light (colour tone)
measured in degrees Kelvin (K) is another
important parameter to chose from. We must
consider that the lumious efficiency is also
determined by colour temperature. Warm
light has lower efficiency than cold light.
Simes offers fixtures in 3000K, 4000K
and 2700K on request. The selection of
the correct colour temperature in relation
to the architectural characteristics of the
surroundings is fundamental in determining
the final quality of the project.
To give an overall definition of quality we
must also underline the importance of
optics (lenses or reflectors). These can be
described as performing when they emit the
highest flux levels possible in the required
direction, in a uniform manner and by
limiting glare.
Glare can be caused by direct light or stray
light, in other words the unwanted portion
of light generated by reflections inside the
optical system.
To engineer fixtures fitted with anti glare
cowels and to fine tune all those elements
that permit to reduce stray light, means
marginally sacrificing efficiency and give
more importance to visual comfort for the
wellbeing of the end user.
Flickering, a very annoying effect visible
through video recordings and photos, can
influence our perception and disturb our
sight. If the LED is driven in an adequate
way through the use of specific drivers this
effect can be significantly reduced.
We cannot ignore the concept of LED
lifetime. As with all light sources LEDs also
reduce their performance over time due to
ageing and heat. The LED lifetime can be
prolonged if the heat generated is properly
dissipated and therefore reduce the working
temperature.
The lighting design project must also
measure the right quantity of light in spaces
or on objects by creating perfect harmony
between background light, accents and
shadows. To position the fixtures in the right
place is not enough; to achieve the right
balance we must have fixtures that can be
set at different intensities allowing to easily
adjust the luminous intensity and achieve
the desired effect.
The sum of all the above factors determines
the quality of light and the effectiveness
and success of the lighting project.
For this reason we always suggest to
seek help from qualified and competent
professionals that can guide you, not only
in the fixture selection but also in the
direction of the concept that can enhance
the spaces to illuminate.
Today the entire Simes portfolio is fitted
with LED; a technological revolution that
has enabled us to reduce both size and
energy consumption, to improve visual
comfort and quality of light, transforming
the Simes catalogue into a series of precise
and sophisticated lighting tools at the
service of designers.
Quality light for outdoors
