LIGHTING SYSTEM TO CONTROL COLOR TEMPERATURE USING RGB FLUORESCENT LAMPS

Lighting is one of the most important factors in creating a comfortabl e space. The color temperature of the light, color rendering index, an d optical lighting distribution characteristics are key factors in mak ing a better lighting environment. Demands for more suitable lighting will be met by controlling such key factors. Available methods to chan ge the color temperature of the light use color filters or replace the light sources to meet the demand. By applying the principle of additi ve mixture of color stimuli and using an original simulation method, w e have developed a new RGB fluorescent lighting system that can contin uously control the color temperature of the luminare over a wide range . This system comprises red, green, and blue 36-W compact fluorescent lamps, a 0-100 percent electronic dimming ballast for each lamp, and a controller. The dimming level data for each lamp (to reproduce certai n color temperatures) are calculated by a computer in advance and then stored in the controller's memory. By operating the controller, the d imming-level data are read out from memory, and each lamp is controlle d to a specific dimming condition, creating the required color tempera ture and illuminince. The system can continuously control temperature from 2800 to 30,000 K and illuminance 20-100 percent at any color temp erature. The color rendering index (Ra) is maintained at more than 80. This technology has many potential applications such as mood lighting for living spaces, office lighting, and shop lighting.