Integrative Lighting Design for Educational Spaces: Linking Spatial Distribution and Spectral Strategies for Visual and Non-Visual Control

This study analyzes the design and performance of artificial lighting in a classroom setting, focusing on the balance between photopic and melanopic illuminance to optimize both visual comfort and circadian well-being. A three-dimensional simulated room model is used to evaluate three luminaires with different spatial distribution curves and two white LEDs, cool (CCT 6487 K) and warm (CCT 2268 K). The assessment includes an analysis of photopic and melanopic illuminance at the corneal plane, Ev and mEDI, respectively, with particular emphasis on the impact of the luminaires’ spatial distribution and the spectral characteristics of the light. The results indicate that a Lambertian spatial distribution of light achieves the best balance between illuminance uniformity and visual comfort. Illuminance uniformity is calculated on the horizontal work plane at 0.80 m, in line with the nature of visual tasks in classroom settings, making it the optimal solution for the simulated scenario. The cool LED provides greater melanopic stimulation, which is ideal for cognitive activation in the morning. Conversely, the warm LED creates a more relaxing atmosphere with lower melanopic values, making it better suited for the evening. Furthermore, this study proposes a dynamic lighting system that adjusts the correlated color temperature throughout the day by modifying the spectral power distribution of the light to accommodate both visual and biological needs. This research highlights the importance of integrating photopic and melanopic lighting considerations in luminaire design, offering practical insights for creating flexible and health-promoting environments in real-world settings.