Floodlighting

Abstract

Floodlighting is defined as “the lighting, usually by projection, of the whole of a scene or object to a level considerably greater than that of its surroundings.” The paper deals mainly with the application of floodlighting out of doors with particular reference to the spectacular floodlighting of buildings. Satisfactory floodlighting depends on effective light control and the equipment used must, therefore, be well designed optically so that the engineer can choose from a range of equipment a unit appropriate to any normal requirement of beam shape and length of throw. Floodlighting equipment has to operate in all weathers and often in relatively inaccessible positions. It must, therefore, be robust, watertight, capable of dissipating the heat from the lamps and easy to maintain. The application of such equipment in an installation involves consideration of factors which are as much artistic as physical. The determination of the direction from which the main floodlighting should be directed involves consideration of the angle from which the object is most likely to be viewed as well as the nature of any architectural features and the depth of shadow they will cast. It often involves compromise on account of the practical limitations imposed by the facilities available. Supplementary lighting can be used to emphasise special features, to introduce highlights or to fill in gaps in the main lighting caused by local obstructions. The level of illumination required depends upon a number of factors including the function of the building. Coloured light sources can sometimes be used with advantage.

After analysing a typical installation in some detail, possible fields of floodlighting are discussed in the paper including the lighting of gardens, fountains, etc., as well as more utilitarian industrial applications.