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Simulation Inaccuracy in Lighting Design Caused by Geometric Assumptions in Luminaire Data.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Simulation Inaccuracy in Lighting Design Caused by Geometric Assumptions in Luminaire Data.
Authors: Mokran, Marek1 (AUTHOR), Kompan, David1 (AUTHOR) david.kompan@stuba.sk, Janiga, Peter1 (AUTHOR), Dubnicka, Roman2 (AUTHOR), Gasparovsky, Dionyz3 (AUTHOR)
Source: Leukos. Jul2026, Vol. 22 Issue 4, p485-515. 31p.
Subjects: Lighting design, Computer simulation, Photometry, Luminance (Photometry)
Abstract: Accurate lighting simulations are essential for designing electric lighting systems that meet visual comfort, energy efficiency, and regulatory standards. A key limitation lies in standard photometric file formats such as Eulumdat and IES, which often simplify luminaire geometry by assuming idealized shapes or point source behavior. These simplifications overlook spatial complexity and can result in significant errors, particularly in near-field conditions. This study investigates the influence of geometric assumptions in photometric data on the accuracy of lighting simulations. Laboratory measurements were performed on three types of luminaires: linear, square, and multi-source. Illuminance values were recorded with a calibrated luxmeter in a photometric laboratory, with the luminaire mounted in a fixed position, then compared with theoretical calculations and simulations produced by widely used lighting simulation softwares. The results show that deviations between simulations and real measurements remain within 2–6% for compact symmetric luminaires. However, in luminaires with multiple spatially separated emitting areas, simulation errors exceeded 30% at short distances. Discrepancies were more pronounced at off axis positions and in close proximity to the luminaire, highlighting the limitations of oversimplified photometric models. These findings emphasize the need to consider the limitations of photometric formats when modeling geometrically complex luminaires. Designers should be aware of possible inaccuracies in near field regions and reflect this in the design process. Improved photometric data formats and enhanced simulation algorithms are necessary to more accurately represent real lighting behavior and to ensure dependable design outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Accurate lighting simulations are essential for designing electric lighting systems that meet visual comfort, energy efficiency, and regulatory standards. A key limitation lies in standard photometric file formats such as Eulumdat and IES, which often simplify luminaire geometry by assuming idealized shapes or point source behavior. These simplifications overlook spatial complexity and can result in significant errors, particularly in near-field conditions. This study investigates the influence of geometric assumptions in photometric data on the accuracy of lighting simulations. Laboratory measurements were performed on three types of luminaires: linear, square, and multi-source. Illuminance values were recorded with a calibrated luxmeter in a photometric laboratory, with the luminaire mounted in a fixed position, then compared with theoretical calculations and simulations produced by widely used lighting simulation softwares. The results show that deviations between simulations and real measurements remain within 2–6% for compact symmetric luminaires. However, in luminaires with multiple spatially separated emitting areas, simulation errors exceeded 30% at short distances. Discrepancies were more pronounced at off axis positions and in close proximity to the luminaire, highlighting the limitations of oversimplified photometric models. These findings emphasize the need to consider the limitations of photometric formats when modeling geometrically complex luminaires. Designers should be aware of possible inaccuracies in near field regions and reflect this in the design process. Improved photometric data formats and enhanced simulation algorithms are necessary to more accurately represent real lighting behavior and to ensure dependable design outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:15502724
DOI:10.1080/15502724.2025.2577328