Characteristics of
Halogen Lamps
- White 3,000 K color
temperature with 100 color
rendering index
- 95% lumen maintenance
over life
- High lumen output in very
small bulb sizes
- Easy to find, relatively low
cost of replacements
- Up to 40% more efficient
than standard
incandescent bulbs
- No expensive ballast
required
- Completely safe when
used in properly designed
light fixtures
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Lighting and the Aging Eye
As we age, natural physical changes of the human eye
diminish our visual abilities including our ability to read.
The cornea becomes more opaque, the lens absorbs more
light, and the pupil diameter decreases, resulting in a
reduction in retinal illuminance. Increased fat deposits in
the cornea and lens lead to an increase in light scattering
inside the eye, making it more difficult for the eye to
recognize the visual images. The lens yellows and absorbs
a higher amount of blue wavelengths. Last but not least,
weaker ciliary muscles and an increased rigidity and
hardening of the lens reduce our ability to focus and to
adjust to different light levels easily.
Holtkötter has initiated and supported research at the
University of Colorado at Boulder to study and develop the
scientific basis of lighting for the aging eye and to research
how good lighting can mitigate the effects of the natural
physical changes that we all are subjected to as time
passes. Some of the results of this study are being
incorporated into this series of table, chair-side and floor
reading lamps.
The reduction in retinal illuminance requires a light level of
more than 100 foot candles for optimal reading
performance. The 75-watt or 100-watt halogen light bulb
by Osram, as well as the shape and construction of the
inside of the reflector, allow for a light level in excess of
100 foot candles. A matte glass diffuser and a reflector
that focuses the light only on the reading material will
reduce glare and scattering.
Adjustable dimming controls and the adjustability of the
physical reflector location allow the light levels to be set at
the optimal position, reducing the need for the eye to
adjust to different light levels.
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