Space of visual and circadian parameters of RGBW lighting systems

Abstract

Due to the proven effect of light on human circadian rhythms, nowadays researchers and developers of lighting systems (LS) concentrate on the non-visual parameters of light and methods of ensuring a safe comfortable light environment. This requires optimisation of spectral power distribution (SPD). In this view the most promising and functional are RGBW systems due to their ability to change dynamically SPD and, hence, light parameters. In this work we explore two RGBW (red-greenblue-white) systems with different white LEDs (warm white and neutral white) and the space of visual and non-visual parameters that they can ensure. Visual parameters are studied in terms of colour rendering index, colour fidelity index and visual corneal illuminance while non-visual parameters are studied in terms of circadian light, circadian stimulus and circadian action factor. These parameters are calculated for different contribution of the components in a correlated colour temperature (CCT) range of 2500 – 7000K. In addition, acceptable criterion of the colour fidelity index above 85 is used. It is shown that under this condition the circadian action factor in the range of 0.33-0.98 can be obtained by changing the CCT and (or) colour fidelity index. Also an achievable area of the circadian stimulus versus corneal illuminance space for RGBW systems is found. It enables to choose optimal combination of CCT, circadian stimulus and corneal illuminance to provide the desired level of circadian effect with sufficient visual comfort depending on the daytime and field of system's implementation. This data is useful for LS manufacturers and lighting designers to create a comfortable lighting environment. Keywords - RGBW colour mixing, tunable white light, circadian effect, colour rendering, colour fidelity index.