The Fabric of our Society

The Fabric of Our Society editorial is a platform for industry thought leaders to provide experience-based opinions and reflections on various topics. Diverse perspectives are respected and most welcome. Want to contribute? Email [email protected]

June 2024

Building Control Systems - Legrand North America 

Gary Meshberg
Market Development Specialist, Legrand

No lighting technology is changing more rapidly than controls and data collection. Systems compatibility, cybersecurity risks, and user experience are all crucial to widespread adoption of smart lighting technology. Industry education, in terms of technology and market research, is the key.

If people perceive the need for a new technology and believe in its usefulness and benefits, they are more likely to adopt it. For example, the convenience of smartphones for communication and information access has driven rapid adoption. And if a technology is perceived as easy-to-use, people will spread the word. A barrier to adoption is often a lack of awareness. 

Intuitive interfaces and clear instructions can encourage adoption. Conversely, overly complex or confusing technology may be rejected. Compatibility with lighting and other systems and lower risk (whether real or perceived) both influence functionality and uptime. Ease of learning the new technology and affordability also influence adoption in the marketplace.

The next big thing
Lighting systems are likely to continue integrating smart technologies. As technology advances, this trend is only gaining momentum.

Some key developments to watch for:
Connected lighting systems: Lighting systems that are connected to other systems and the internet can be controlled remotely via smartphones, tablets, or other devices. These systems offer flexibility and convenience, allowing users to adjust lighting settings from anywhere.

Greater sensor integration: Continued integration of sensors–motion sensors, occupancy sensors, daylight sensors, RFID, etc.–provide value beyond lighting and code compliance.  Asset tracking and space optimization/utilization are prime value propositions.

Adaptive lighting: Today’s lighting systems can adapt to the needs and preferences of users. With health and wellbeing data in hand, customers are beginning to demand adjustable color temperature and intensity based on the time of day or the task being performed. Look for advancements in ambient sensing and voice control.

Data-driven lighting control: Data analytics can be used to optimize lighting based on usage patterns, occupancy data, and other factors. This can help maximize energy savings and enhance user comfort.

Integration with other smart systems: Lighting control systems are communicating more with other intelligent building systems, such as HVAC and security systems. Technology advances create more seamless and efficient building automation solutions.

Advanced controls for specialty applications: Horticultural lighting, healthcare lighting, and architectural lighting all demand specific advanced lighting controls. Engineers are working to develop specific apps to meet the unique needs of these environments.

Overall, the future of lighting control is likely to be characterized by increased compatibility and connectivity (wired, wireless, and hybrid technology), intelligence, and customization. For the foreseeable future, technology will continue to evolve, and innovations will be introduced and adopted into the marketplace.

What can the lighting industry do to stay current?
We must all work together to maintain access to easy-to-understand information on different types of lighting controls, their benefits, and how they work. Information can be shared through websites, associations, trade shows, brochures, videos. Focus on knowledge-sharing and educational materials; not just innovation and technology.

Two rich educational resources we already have are the Lighting Controls Association and industry trade shows.  LCA has a variety of online educational  resources such as videos, accredited courses, case studies, and white papers. The purpose is to educate professionals about lighting controls and how they can improve energy efficiency and (just as important) enhance the quality of light.

LEDucation and NYControlled offer the NYC lighting community interactive and hands-on learning experiences from numerous subject matter experts. You can see live demonstrations showing how lighting controls create different lighting effects and enhance the overall lighting experience.

The NYControlled show is a controls-focused, one-day show aimed at a broad range of professionals. Even industry veterans are learning about the latest lighting controls technologies and products. Respected experts – some of the top minds in our industry – present on cutting-edge developments. They cover technical topics and research on what drives market adoption. Presented jointly by the IESNYC and Designers Lighting Forum New York, with advice from the LCA, the event responds directly to the industry demand for concrete, practical information. Together, we’re making lighting controls education accessible and inspiring.

For further details visit nycontrolled.com