Valotuslaskelma

Valotuslaskelma is a Finnish term used in lighting design to describe the process of calculating and evaluating illumination levels in a space. It combines room geometry, surface reflectances, daylight contributions, and photometric data from luminaires to produce quantitative indicators of lighting quality. The aim is to ensure adequate, comfortable, and energy-efficient lighting and to support design decisions and regulatory compliance.

The calculation typically relies on inputs such as room dimensions and geometry, ceiling and wall surfaces, work plane height, daylight availability, and the photometric data of luminaires. Calculations can be performed with computer-based tools using methods that sample the space point by point or on a grid, and may include daylight integration and shading considerations. Outputs commonly include illuminance maps on the work plane, average maintained illuminance, uniformity, glare indicators, daylight factors, and estimated energy use.

Valotuslaskelma is applied in architectural design, renovations, and permit processes, and it often informs decisions on luminaire selection, placement, and control strategies. In Finland and the European context, it aligns with standards for lighting and daylight in buildings, such as EN 12464-1 for indoor lighting and EN 17037 for daylight, alongside national regulations and energy codes. The results support compliance demonstrations and energy performance assessments.

Limitations of valotuslaskelma include dependency on data quality and model assumptions; real-world factors such as occupancy, maintenance, and dynamic lighting conditions can cause deviations from calculated values. Common software tools used in practice include photometric programs that generate lux distributions and glare metrics, frequently integrated with BIM workflows.