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Achievement Award: Professor Shuji Nakamura
The Jury recognizes the lifetime achievements of Prof. Nakamura, particularly his impactful contributions to the energy and lighting sectors, his dedication to global sustainability, and his support for ongoing research in laser/LED technology, along with his efforts towards fostering a cohesive global society.
Prof. Shuji Nakamura is a globally recognized pioneer in the field of semiconductor technology, best known for his invention of the blue LED. Born in Ehime, Japan, in 1954, Nakamura’s groundbreaking work has revolutionized lighting technology, paving the way for energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions. His blue LEDs, combined with red and green counterparts, have transformed electronic displays, leading to the development of white LEDs and blue laser diodes, which underpin Blu-ray technology.
Nakamura’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the 2014 Nobel Prize in Physics. Beyond his technical achievements, he has been a staunch advocate for inventors’ rights and has championed the cause of sustainable and efficient lighting. Currently, he serves as a professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, continuing his research and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Scientific Paper Award: Dr. Anne Berends
“Unlocking the Health Benefits of Near-Infrared Light: A Breakthrough Clinical Study”
Dr. Anne Berends is Program Director Life Science at Seaborough.
The jury comments, that the paper presents novel research on the benefits of near-infrared light in the LED sector, including its application in photobiomodulation and health improvements. The paper is well-written, logically organized, and includes a comprehensive literature review. It also presents a clinical study with clear methodology and results, demonstrating the positive effects of photobiomodulation on health and well-being.
The paper explores the feasibility of integrating specific LED devices into daily life, proposing a USB-powered accessory design. Further research and development are needed for optimizing the performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of photobiomodulationdevices.
Best scientific paper published in LED professional Review (LpR) in 2023. Republished in LpR#100.
Product Award in Category Sensors
nanoLambda
BLE Spectroradiometer: XL-500
The jury recognizes the XL-500 by nanoLambda as an exceptional achievement in spectroradiometry, revolutionizing lighting research and industrial applications in plant, animal, and human-centric lighting fields. This tiny, yet powerful BLE spectroradiometer, paired with free Android and iOS apps, offers unparalleled convenience and precision. Weighing a mere 28g and measuring just 39x26x16 mm, the XL-500 is a marvel of engineering, combining a rechargeable battery and Bluetooth Low Energy technology for seamless operation.
Its ability to measure and record light spectrum with absolute power values, including SPD, PAR/PPFD, Lux, CCT, CRI, and CIE color values, sets a new standard in the field. This device’s innovation lies in its compact size and affordability, bringing previously bulky and expensive spectrometer technology into a consumer-friendly realm. The XL-500’s capability for continuous light spectrum measurement over weeks on a single battery charge is a testament to nanoLambda’s commitment to advancing technology for practical, everyday use.
The jury applauds nanoLambda for creating a device that not only serves scientific and industrial needs but also has the potential to impact consumer applications, from health monitoring to pollution detection. The XL-500 represents a significant step forward in integrating advanced spectrometry into the Internet of Things, offering a new dimension of data collection and analysis in various fields.
Product Award in Category LEDs
Yujileds
CIE LED Technology
The jury comments, that the lighting industry is witnessing a revolutionary innovation with the development of LEDs that precisely emulate the spectral characteristics of CIE illuminants, a significant departure from traditional lighting fidelity standards. Central to this advancement is the Spectral Accuracy Index (SAI), a purely mathematical tool surpassing conventional color accuracy metrics, enabling precise phosphor selection and production process fine-tuning.
This breakthrough, particularly relevant in architectural design, offers a familiar, comforting light akin to incandescent sources while leveraging LED efficiency and longevity. Additionally, it presents a sustainable, cost-effective alternative in sectors like photovoltaics, traditionally dependent on xenon lamps for critical spectroscopy. The versatility of these high spectral precision LEDs extends to enhancing art gallery and museum experiences, and improving healthcare settings, indicating limitless potential applications. This endeavor in LED technology, focusing on spectral replication accuracy, marks a transformative step in artificial illumination, poised to redefine industry standards and transform our interaction with artificial light.
Product Award in Category LED Modules
AI Prize 2023
Nichia
Light Cluster Type L
The Nichia Light Cluster™ Type L addresses a significant industry challenge of balancing uniform luminosity with lightweight profiles and reducing glare. Its ultra-wide light distribution ensures an even illumination, creating a comfortable and glare-free lighting environment. It also reduces manufacturing and installation costs by allowing thinner, lighter fixtures. The product has a high market relevance, catering to a variety of applications, including architectural lighting and signage, and aligns with the market’s push for environmentally responsible practices.
The Light Cluster™ Type L uses an advanced design to emit light not only directly above the module but also diagonally and sideways, introducing a new paradigm in lighting technology. It is versatile for various needs, showing high scalability.
The Light Cluster™ Type L reduces luminaire thickness by 60% and weight by 30%, therefore reducing the raw materials and energy involved in its production. It lowers transportation costs, mitigating carbon emissions. The energy efficiency of this LED technology also supports its sustainability.
For the first time this year, the LpS Digital Awards were evaluated in parallel with an expert jury using artificial intelligence. A team of experts from the Technical University of Vienna led the development over several months. The basic AI-model was ChatGPT 4.0, developed by Open AI, which was then interconnected with an extensive database from the light, lighting and illumination sector. The resulting model was trained to evaluate submissions in the areas of Market & Innovation, Technology, and Sustainability. Ultimately, all submissions were scored by the model on a scale of 1-10 (with the maximum score being 10). The winner of the AI-Prize represents a substantial, sustainable, and significant innovation for an outstanding solution.
Product Award in Category Luminaries
Fenos
Track Light: Kruza Maxi
The jury is profoundly impressed by the innovative Kruza Maxi track light, a game-changer in professional lighting for museums, retail, and art exhibitions. This cutting-edge lighting solution enables precise object-based light spectrum tuning through a user-friendly app, optimizing the appearance of objects according to specific design intents. Kruza Maxi’s integration of a six-channel custom-developed LED module and a state-of-the-art colormixing optic ensures uniform intensity and exceptional color mixing, setting it apart in the realm of lighting technology.
The unique capability of Kruza Maxi to analyze scene pictures and optimize the spectrum based on object colors, enhancing chroma, and offering predefined scenes for familiar objects like fruits, is revolutionary. This feature, akin to ‘Photoshop in the world of lighting’, allows for unparalleled customization and visual enhancement in various settings. The light’s flexibility, including manual and wireless control options, and its environmental benefits through reduced material waste and energy consumption, highlight Kruza Maxi’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency. The jury applauds Kruza Maxi for its innovative approach, environmental consciousness, and its transformative impact on professional lighting.
Product Award in Category Controls
KUMUX
Dynamic Lighting API: KUMUX
The jury commends KUMUX for its pioneering Dynamic Lighting API, a groundbreakinginnovation in lighting technology that seamlessly integrates the properties of natural light into artificial environments. This innovation significantly enhances human well-being by replicating the solar cycle indoors, dynamically adjusting brightness and color temperature. The KUMUX API, rooted in cloud-based intelligence, artificial intelligence, and data science, marks a remarkable advancement in lighting solutions, transcending traditional static lighting.
KUMUX’s approach, focusing on human-centric lighting, operates in harmony with natural circadian rhythms, fostering improved health, mood, and productivity. It is not only a triumph in technological and scientific prowess but also a testament to the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. The flexibility and adaptability of the KUMUX API, compatible with various control systems, makes it a versatile solution in diverse architectural settings.
This innovation reflects a deep understanding of the vital role lighting plays in our lives, revolutionizing how light is utilized in indoor spaces. The KUMUX API is a significant contribution to the lighting industry, setting new standards for health, well-being, and sustainability. It exemplifies the successful fusion of technology with natural principles, leading the way in creating healthier, more productive environments through intelligent lighting design.
Sustainability Award in Category UV LEDs
Bolb
UVB LED Technology
The jury recognizes Bolb, Inc.’s innovative UVB LED technology as a significant breakthrough in addressing the widespread issue of Vitamin D deficiency, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin.” This silent pandemic affects a staggering 42% of the U.S. population, with serious health implications. Bolb’s high power, efficient UVB LEDs, particularly the 295 nm narrow band range, are perfectly aligned with the human skin’s Vitamin D production spectrum, offering a more efficient and safer alternative to natural sunlight exposure.
The technological prowess of Bolb’s UVB LEDs lies in their mass-produced, high Wall Plug Efficiency (WPE) of 10-15%, robust performance over 10,000 hours, and adaptability to industry-standard SMD packages. This innovation is not only a step forward in medical device development for health supplementation but also paves the way for new approaches to combat Vitamin D deficiency globally.
Bolb, Inc.’s commitment to creating solutions that address both health and environmental concerns is commendable. These UVB LEDs stand out as a crucial development in preventative healthcare, showcasing the potential to revolutionize how we address Vitamin D supplementation and overall human health. The jury applauds Bolb, Inc. for their significant contribution to the field of health and wellness through advanced lighting technology.
Sustainability Award in Category LEDs
Lumileds
NightScape LED Technology
The jury applauds Lumileds’ NightScape Technology as a groundbreaking advancement in outdoor lighting, addressing the critical issue of light pollution. NightScape LEDs, with less than 2% blue content, are a testament to Lumileds’ commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious lighting solutions. This technology not only meets but exceeds the stringent requirements set by municipalities like Maui, Hawaii, in their efforts to protect the night sky and reduce the harmful effects of artificial lighting.
The superior efficacy of NightScape Technology, around 185lm/W, combined with its high reliability and excellent color rendering, makes it a standout choice in outdoor lighting. It successfully balances the need for low blue content with high-quality, broad-spectrum white light. NightScape’s warm, amber-white light, reminiscent of traditional sodium lamps but with vastly improved performance, ensures user satisfaction in both color fidelity and visual acuity.
NightScape Technology is not just a solution for today but a forward-thinking innovation, ready to be integrated into existing and future outdoor lighting systems. This technology represents a significant stride towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to outdoor illumination, benefitting communities, wildlife, and the environment at large. The jury commends Lumileds for their pioneering work and their contribution to a brighter, yet environmentally friendly future.
Sustainability Award in Category Controls
Inventronics
Bluetooth System: HubSense
The jury recognizes HubSense® by Inventronics as a trailblazing innovation in wireless lighting control. This Bluetooth SIG-based system revolutionizes lighting projects, making them quick and effortless, especially in retrofitting scenarios. HubSense® eliminates the need for control cables and extensive masonry work, simplifying installation and maintenance. What sets HubSense® apart is its ability to form a reliable, responsive, and intelligent system for optimal lighting control. Its precise motion monitoring ensures that light is used only when and where necessary, contributing significantly to energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. HubSense®’s standout feature is its simplicity and efficiency, distinguishing it from more complex systems in the market.
The system’s adaptability to different environments, including schools, offices, retail spaces, industrial projects, and parking areas, is remarkable. Its broad portfolio of sensors and integration capabilities for both standard and emergency luminaires, even with IP65 ratings, demonstrate its versatility.
HubSense®’s open, user-friendly web app allows for easy planning and commissioning of lighting projects. The system’s flexibility in reconfiguration for new room utilization concepts, without interrupting daily activities, adds to its appeal. Furthermore, sensor-based control systems support natural daylight, ensuring well-lit, comfortable, and sustainable interiors.
In conclusion, HubSense® effectively addresses the challenges of modern lighting needs, striking a perfect balance between energy efficiency and user comfort. Its innovative approach to lighting control, with significant time and cost savings, makes it an exemplary solution in the lighting industry.
Sustainability Award in Category Lighting Modules
Modular International
LED Module 579e Series
The jury proudly acknowledges the 579e LED module series by Modular International, Inc. as a groundbreaking advancement in lighting technology. This series represents a significant leap in energy efficiency (108-156lm/W), offering high output in a compact, cost-effective package. With industry-leading lumen per watt efficiency in various lumen packages and diameters, the 579e series sets a new benchmark in lighting design.
What sets the 579e modules apart is their ability to deliver high-quality color rendering (90+ CRI) with exceptional energy efficiency. The modules’ advanced design, featuring a double gimbal ring assembly for adjustability and rotation, and a range of color temperatures (2,700-4,000K), makes them versatile for diverse applications. Modular International’s commitment to innovation is evident in these modules’ integration into an extensive range of product combinations, ensuring compatibility and adaptability in various settings.
The 579e series not only meets but exceeds industry standards in performance and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial applications. Its recognition in the IES Progress Report as a significant advancement underscores its impact on the field of architectural lighting. The jury commends Modular International for their dedication to sustainable practices and for creating a product that contributes to energy efficiency and enhanced lighting quality in smart buildings.
Sustainability Award in Category Tools
Temeloy
Life Cycle Assessment Calculator: LCA-CALC
The jury celebrates Eco-Lighting Metrics’ LCA-CALC as a transformative online platform, making a substantial contribution to sustainable lighting design. This innovative tool empowers lighting specialists to calculate the environmental footprint of luminaireswithout the need for an LCA analyst, significantly advancing eco-conscious design practices in the lighting industry.
LCA-CALC stands out for its accessibility and affordability, breaking new ground in democratizing eco-design metrics. Its real-time, data-backed analysis provides clear insights into the ecological impact of lighting fixtures, from production to end-of-life. This user-friendly platform sidesteps greenwashing concerns, offering a reliable approach to assess and reduce the environmental impact of lighting installations.
Partnering with CIRAIG, LCA-CALC leverages cutting-edge life cycle assessment research, making it the first tool in the lighting industry to offer such comprehensive and actionable environmental metrics. The jury applauds LCA-CALC for its role in promoting sustainable practices and for its pivotal contribution towards a greener future in lighting design.
Winners 2022
Product Award: Nichia’s Dynasolis
Product Award: Samsung’s LH502D
Product Award: LEDiL’s YASMEEN
Product Award: ams OSRAM’s DALI PRO 2 IoT
Product Award: EnOcean’s STM550
Sustainability Award: TE Connectivity’s LUMAWISE Motion Sensor
Scientific Best Paper Award: Dr. Eric VIREY from Yole Group
Achievement Award: Jan DENNEMAN from the GoodLightGroup