Realistic simulated views

The European lighting standard EN 12464 establishes minimum requirements for work place lighting in Europe. These minimum requirements are represented using technical values which, when adhered to, are supposed to ensure fulfilment of essential lighting quality criteria. The method has proven successful. Functional aspects of lighting are considered comprehensively. Standard-compliant lighting facilitates unreserved fulfilment of the visual task.

In many cases, however, the creative aspect of lighting is just as relevant as the functional aspect (see also chapter "Basic requirements for lighting").

Three-dimensional rendering can be facilitated by "ray tracers", which consider the luminance values incident on the surfaces of the examined room, i.e. room surfaces and the objects within the room. It is possible to virtually access the rendered room and to "look around".

When it comes to visually creative design, programs like this can be a helpful tool for designers. Still, an assessment of the displayed calculation result based on experience with handling this technical tool is indispensable, since settings of the software or the display monitor can significantly influence or even adulterate the appearance of the simulation.

Once it is ensured that a reliably realistic depiction of the future lighting situation has been achieved, a "virtual walk" can be of of assistance to the non-expert constructor in making a decision.