Brad Stewart, director of sales at Hera Lighting, will be speaking at NeoCon® World’s Trade Fair 2010 about “How and Why LEDs Are Changing Furniture into Light Sources” to discuss today’s important topics, such as the green movement, LEED certifications, ASHRAE, Title 24 and energy costs, and where LED lighting fits into the quest for sustainability. Recently, he took some time to share some of his “illuminations” with Contract.
Profile: Brad Stewart
Company: Hera Lighting
Why is Hera Lighting focusing on LEDs in particular?
Comparing LEDs to other solutions, we’re almost always able to prove a nice economic return for the end consumer. LEDs are like the Super-heros of lighting. They’re smaller, more efficient; produce much less heat and more light than other sources.
What is your favorite lighting product?
I’m keen on Hera’s new StickLED because it’s taking our company to a whole new level. It’s a product the size of a No. 2 pencil that produces as much light as a T5 fluorescent, with excellent CRI, consistent color, and 50,0000 lamp life. From commercial to residential, it’s a winner.
What are some common problems that architects face with LEDs?
The number one challenge is inconsistent color. Even the best diodes in the world, from one bin, are at least slightly inconsistent. Your manufacturer must do an excellent job of binning the diodes and then documenting the bins throughout the manufacturing and distribution channels. Properly managed, this problem is slight, but if not controlled you can have a mess on your hands.
In what ways have LEDs evolved over the years? How does this development relate to the green movement?
With the development of HO-White LEDs, we’re now able to light cities by employing technology used in the display of a calculator. It seems every day brings diodes that are brighter with improved color. More light, lower energy consumption, and fewer light bulb changes all add up to a perfect storm for the green movement.
What do you think is the next step in LED development?
O-LEDs (Organic LEDs) are poised to be the next great innovation. Today they’re not as efficient as conventional LEDs and can be moisture sensitive, but these issues will eventually be covered. Imagine lighting from a fixture that is as thin as an onion peel.
Have you seen any particularly creative uses of LEDs recently? Can you describe the design of the product or project for us?
Non-disclosure agreements refrain us from using brand names. However, several hotel brands are starting to employ LEDs to reduce costs while enhancing their interior design. Today you will find more than one hotel brand using LEDs to creatively illuminate hotel room furniture. These unique designs add drama and eliminate shadows while paying for themselves with lower life cycle costs.
For more information on Stuart’s talk at NeoCon® 2010, contact Jenna Kaba at (800) 336-4372.
