Lighting in Design May/June 2017

are unlikely to be many changes at this stage. 3D printing has also changed the design process sig- nificantly. It is possible to print components that will ultimately be cast in aluminium and a fitting can be printed for approval early in the process. Once the design is approved, the design soft- ware is sent for tooling, which can be done in-house or outsourced. When tooling is completed, the fitting is cast and internal testing starts: thermal testing on all the LEDs; junction temperatures in the fitting; and IP testing if required (exterior fittings require a lot more tests). From start to finish the entire process, depending on the fitting, can take anything from six to 12 months. Key to manufacturing is the need to embrace technology, innovation and design. Without these, Africa will not have relevant luminaire manufactur- ers. We need to invest in technology including testing equipment, laboratories, goniometers, solid works software, and design software. Along with technology we need people: designers, people with technical skills; people who are passionate about lighting design. Lighting is no longer seen as a purely functional element and design plays a huge role when clients want façade lighting, terrace lighting or glow of light. Although architects and electrical engineers may design a concept fitting, they rely on lighting companies to execute their ideas and the lighting companies, in turn, need to interact closely with shopfitters, electrical contractors and lighting sup- pliers. Luminaire manufacture is all about evolution and we need to evolve all the time. If we do not evolve and embrace technology, we will cease to exist.

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LiD MAY/JUNE 2017