Light distribution geometries for emergency luminaires

Light distribution, as a function of direction in space, can be shown as a group of curves or a 3D geometry. This is the best possible way to recognise or imagine what light intensity looks like in different directions. When it comes to emergency lighting, it is possible to alter the light emitted by LED light sources through the use of special, dedicated optics in order to achieve the required types of characteristics.

The most popular light distribution geometries in the technical design and construction of emergency lighting luminaires include: 

  • CR – corridor 
  • XWB – extra wide beam 
  • WB – wide beam 
  • MB (ELB) – medium (elliptical) beam 
  • NB – narrow beam 
  • ASY – asymmetrical beam 

CR – corridor light distribution geometry was especially designed for and is mostly used in escape route lighting. It’s the best solution if you would like to obtain at least 1 lx in the middle of a 2 m wide area. This allows you to minimise the loss of light that’s “escaping"” to the sides.

light distribution_CR.png

XWB – extra widebeam distribution geometry is meant for use inr open areas and very wide spaces. It’s the best solution if you need at least 0.5 lx on the floor level. light distribution_XWB.png

WB – wide-beam distribution geometry is a smart choice for smaller open areas and some points of emphasis. This is the best solution if you need to obtain at least 1 lx near intersections or changes in the direction of corridors, and to achieve at least 0.5 lx in open areas.light distribution_WB.png

MB (ELB) – medium- and elliptical-beam distribution geometry is most often used in applications with large emergency luminaire installation heights. This is the best solution if you need to achieve a certain expected light intensity on the floor level in corridor-shaped areas.light distribution_MB.png

NB – narrow-beam distribution geometry is used in applications with extremely large emergency luminaire installation heights. It’s the best solution if you need to achieve a certain expected light intensity on the floor level in wide-shaped areas.light distribution_NB.png

ASY – asymmetrical beam distribution geometry is great for special points that require an illuminance of 5 lx. It’s also possible to use it to obtain 1 lx on the escape route with a wall-mounted fixture.fire_asy.png