Hubbell Lighting announced that it will begin integrating Hubbell Control Solutions’ new SpectraSync™ color temperature tuning technology into a portfolio of commercial and architectural indoor luminaires. SpectraSync enabled luminaires are available in three distinct technologies for control of indoor spaces: Dim to Warm (2200-3000K), Tunable White (2700-5000K, 2700-6500K) and Scheduled White (2700-5000K, 2700-6500K).
SpectraSync color temperature tuning technology is available in popular luminaires from Litecontrol, Columbia Lighting and Prescolite, and there are plans to add additional luminaires in the future. Ideal for hospitality, education and commercial markets, SpectraSync color temperature tuning technology operates on standard 0-10V dimming protocols and supports preset and scheduling through Hubbell Control Solutions’ NX Distributed Intelligence™ lighting control system or third-party controllers. The primary objectives of the design are ease of specification and installation. By utilizing a single driver strategy with flexible control options, occupants are able to control the space based on the needs of the application, specific activities throughout the day or user defined preferences.
Hubbell Lighting’s goal is to equip lighting professionals with the tools needed to implement occupant-centric strategies that promote wellness and balance through the visual environment, so that the end user can make customizable adjustments. Studies suggest that the discerning control of lighting spectrum and intensity over time can potentially enhance human health, behavior and our general sense of well-being. While there’s still more research to be done, there’s no denying the personal connection humans have with lighting. SpectraSync capitalizes on the innate, biophilic human need for the comfort derived through connection with familiar, natural environments, potentially leading to improved productivity and stress reduction.
Dim to Warm functionality mimics the familiar warming effect that occurs with traditional incandescent and halogen light sources as they are dimmed. It is an ideal solution for hospitality environments, retail and residential spaces where users anticipate a decrease in chromaticity along with a decrease in light level. Hubbell Dim to Warm luminaires dim from 3000K down to 2200K and are compatible with standard 0-10V wallbox dimmers and Hubbell’s NX lighting control system.
Tunable White strategies provide the ability to tailor Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) and intensity, separately, to meet personal preferences, potentially enhancing task visibility, material and colors and the aesthetics of the space. Cost-conscious markets like education are a primary audience for Tunable White where the vast majority of classrooms use basic on/off or high-low controls, and less than two percent feature simple dimming. SpectraSync tunable white users will be able to select from a portfolio of Hubbell luminaires in two CCT ranges; 2700K to 5000K or 2700K to 6500K and have complete control over CCT and intensity.
Administrators and teachers in pilot lighting programs have been attracted to lighting systems capable of varying color temperature and intensity to promote students’ focus, help prepare before a test, and reinforce various behaviors throughout the day.
One unique advantage of SpectraSync enabled luminaires, which is made possible through patented current-tuning technology, is the ability to provide a broad variation in color temperature through the use of a single standard LED driver. This typically results in lower power densities, and a lower initial cost, when compared to luminaires which utilize multiple LED drivers, or a more complex control methodology to achieve similar results.
Scheduled White is designed to mimic the rhythm of natural light or follow an alternative user-defined (lighting practitioner specified) schedule throughout the day. It enables CCT and intensity control throughout the day through a simple 0-10V interface. Controlling CCT preference from 2700K to 5000K or 2700K to 6500K could have a role in enhancing mood and well-being, making it an ideal solution for office, wellbeing or other occupant-centric environments.
In a recent AIA study, architects and building owners noted they are beginning to place greater emphasis on the impact of design decisions on human health. Nearly 75 percent of architects and 67 percent of owners say health considerations now play a role in how their buildings are designed, indicating that healthy environments have become an important tool in marketing to tenants and consumers. Facility owners and organizations see potential improvements in productivity and stress reduction through the use of scheduled white lighting solutions.
SpectraSync color temperature tuning technology was designed with Hubbell Control Solutions’ NX system in mind. When paired with NX lighting controls, SpectraSync color temperature tuning technology benefits from intelligent “out of the box” self-commissioning devices which can be further customized based on the needs of the space and ideals of the experience. This pairing delivers a comprehensive solution that simplifies code compliance and set up through an optional Bluetooth® interface and mobile application. SpectraSync is capable of satisfying individual room support, larger spaces or the entire facilities based on the owner’s specific needs. Elements include the NX Wall Station, the NX Room Controller, In-Fixture controllers, room as well as fixture-based occupancy and daylight sensors.
To facilitate compatibility with third-party control systems, SpectraSync provides designers with a flexible and elegant approach through both 0-10V and other control protocols, such as DMX. Standardizing around simple 0-10V control allows the user interface to be flexible, so that it can be designed with input from key stakeholders and users, which might range from wall box controls to more complex environments such as NX.
Learn more at: www.hubbelllighting.com.
