In the wake of COVID-19, the way we view live sporting events may be forever changed… But do not worry, our newest Sports luminaire range will illuminate your favourite sports with guaranteed flicker-free viewing and reduced stroboscopic effects as standard. 

With the spread of the virus impacting industries across the world, many international events have either been delayed or even cancelled. It has particularly affected the world of sports with the cancellation of such events as The Olympic Games, Six Nations Rugby, Formula 1, Commonwealth Games and so on. As the world moves forward towards the ‘new normal’ the way we follow these events will rely heavily on live broadcasting and therefore flicker-free luminaires are imperative.

What is Flicker?

Flicker is the visual sensation of unsteadiness in a light stimulus occurring at a regular frequency or random intervals. It can occur from the modulation of voltage in the electricity supply. The term commonly used is TLM or temporal light modulation.

We all know the development of LED lighting has brought with it many benefits but as with any new technology, further development takes time to filter through all factions of the industry. Flicker levels are a regular theme, but there’s a consensus in favour of regulations to stop the worst levels of flicker.

Why does flicker affect me?

There are different levels of evidence on how flicker could affect your health, it can cause issues such as visual discomfort, eyestrain, impaired visual and reading performance, migraines, headaches and nausea.

Flicker rates can also affect how we work, it can be distracting, irritating and the stroboscopic illusions can cause safety concerns for people operating machinery or heavy equipment for example people working on docks, etc.

Our flicker-free flood light, Amnis, which has been designed and engineered in the UK, is the perfect fitting for lighting any sports and high mast applications. We have exceeded industry guidelines surrounding stroboscopic effects. See below our results of Amnis and how it meets the stroboscopic limits on the grid.

See below our test results based on our Amnis fitting.

The Test Report provides the following information where the Flicker Index below giving 0.12% is equivalent to the Flicker Factor defined above. Therefore, referencing the CIBSE guideline the above product would be classed as Flicker-Free having a maximum Flicker Factor < 1% at the peak frequency of 99.8Hz.

All tests have been done by independent UK test labs. This is to certify that the following products were tested in accordance with IEEE Std1789-2015 and evaluated for Lighting Quality for TV from the use in Sport Lighting which is directed by the CIBSE guidelines LG04.

Illuminating Sports Applications

When lighting televised sports we have to decide on the best possible product in comparison to the type of event. The events fall into three categories: major events, national events and ‘2nd league’ events. These allow the lighting produced to be specific to its surroundings.

If your project is going to be used for broadcasting live events, you must also consider the building as well as the lighting scheme. It is recommended that lighting and building design teams collaborate for the best possible results. This is according to CIBSE guidance for lighting broadcasted schemes. It allows consideration for the location of the luminaires and their angles in comparison to the camera locations and crowds.

Investing in flicker free lighting is a fantastic way to reduce the effects of high flicker levels for all areas. Luckily, we have a dedicated Sports Division with a range of products including Amnis which will be sure to get the most out of your schemes.

Learn more about Kingfisher Sports.

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