The International Commission on Illumination ( CIE ) is a global organization dedicated to promoting knowledge and cooperation in the fields of lighting and lighting technology. Founded in 1900 , it has played a significant role in establishing standards and guidelines for lighting, color science, and the interaction of light with human perception.
Objectives and mission of the CIE
The CIE aims to promote scientific and technical knowledge about lighting and to develop international standards that improve the quality of lighting and understand its impact on human health and well-being. The organization is active in various areas, such as:
- Color Science – The study of how colors are perceived by the human eye and how this interaction can be standardized in lighting designs.
- Lighting Technology – Developing standards for the performance of lighting systems, including light sources, luminaires, and lighting installations.
- Physiology and psychophysiology of light – Research into the influence of light on human health and performance, including the influence of lighting on sleep, mood, and productivity.
Important standards and documents of the CIE
The CIE has developed several influential standards and guidelines, including:
1. CIE 1931 Color coordinates (XYZ)
- The CIE developed the first color coordinates in 1931, which provide a standardized way to define and compare colors based on human perception.
- This system is still used worldwide in color measurement and management.
2. CIE color temperature and spectral distribution
- The CIE has developed standards for measuring and classifying the color temperature of light sources, which helps in designing lighting with a specific atmosphere or effect (e.g., warm white vs. cool white light).
3. CIE system for lighting
- The CIE has established standards for illuminance and lighting efficacy , including the measurement of lumens , lux , and candelas .
4. CIE light sources and lamps
- The CIE defines standards for lighting performance, such as the efficiency of lamps and the use of LED technology .
5. CIE Publications and Scientific Research
- The CIE publishes research and reports on various topics such as the effectiveness of different lighting technologies and their impact on human health.
CIE works and groups
The CIE is divided into several technical committees focusing on specific areas, such as lighting in different environments (e.g., street lighting), the study of light interactions with materials, and the effect of light on biological processes (such as the circadian rhythm ). Some important committees include:
- CIE TC1-73 – Concerning the influence of lighting on human health and well-being.
- CIE TC 4-46 – Concerning the development of LED technology and standards for LED lighting.
CIE in practice
The CIE has a global influence on lighting design in many different areas, including:
- Urban Lighting and Public Lighting – It provides guidelines for designing street lighting that is both energy-efficient and functional.
- Office and home lighting – The CIE develops standards for lighting that promote productivity and comfort .
- Healthcare – Guidelines for lighting that positively influences the well-being and recovery of patients in hospitals and nursing homes.
CIE and the future of lighting
The CIE remains involved in the development of the lighting of the future, especially with the emergence of new technologies such as LED lighting , OLEDs , and intelligent lighting (lighting that can respond to the environment or user needs). The organization plays a key role in promoting the sustainability and energy efficiency of lighting systems worldwide.