Guide as PDF

Downlights

Light

Downlights emit a beam that is directed downwards at either a perfectly vertical or an adjustable angle. They are usually mounted on the ceiling and illuminate the floor or walls. They are offered with narrow-beam, wide-beam, symmetric or asymmetric light distribution. The cut-off angle of narrow-beam downlights means they are largely free of glare. On downlights with Darklight reflector, the lamp's cut-off angle is identical to that of the luminaire. This gives a luminaire with the widest beam possible while simultaneously having an optimised light output ratio. The use of a diffuser reduces the luminance in the luminaire and thereby improves the visual comfort and the evenness.

Criteria for downlights
- choice of lamp determines light colour, functional life, efficiency, light intensity
- emission angle determines the beam of light and is defined by the reflector and the lamp
- cut-off angle limits glare and increases visual comfort
- light output ratio is increased by optimised reflector technology

Downlights

Luminaires

Downlights

Downlights have a rotationally symmetric beam that is directed vertically downwards.

Directional luminaires

Directional luminaires provide highlighting for individual areas or objects with a medium to narrow light distribution.

Arrangement

The offset from wall should measure approximately half of the luminaire spacing in order to achieve sufficient brightness on the wall and well proportioned scallops of light. To attain an even illumination on a reference plane, the luminaire spacing should not exceed the mounting height h by more than 1.5:1. An optimal evenness is achieved when a = h.

Applications

Downlights provide general lighting for
- entrance areas
- arcades
- passages
- atria
Recessed downlights are inconspicuous architectural details, whereas surface-mounted downlights and pendant luminaires act as room features. They should correspond to the architecture in their arrangement and design.