Playful lighting over coffee
Completely lit with LEDs
When the lights go on in Platzhaus in Mannheim, the guests sit up and take notice. Depending on the time of day and the occasion, guests may be bathed in light of any conceivable color. Behind this refined yet economical lighting system are 2560 MULTILEDs from OSRAM Opto Semiconductors. Lighting design is by Peter Klöpfer, Development Center Power & Lighting, Rutronik Elektronische Bauelemente GmbH.
Owner Theodoros Tarnanidis welcomes his guests in the morning with espresso and warm sunlight-yellow light to make them feel good about the new day. A fresh green light is used during lunchtimes in the spring. In the evenings cool blue light is the dominant color to go with the live music. Late into the night, rapid color changes are used to create a funky club atmosphere. The lighting can be easily adjusted to suit the time of year and particular occasions. At Christmas, for example, the lighting provides a warm red glow.
MULTILEDs in every corner
Three glass columns of light provide an eye-catching centerpiece in the restaurant. Their soft light immediately attracts the attention of everyone who enters the restaurant. To create the right atmosphere at night, there are eight ceiling mounted spotlights, each also equipped with light emitting diodes, to boost the background lighting level. Accent lighting is provided by glowing floor vases and illuminated steps so there is no risk of guests tripping rather than tipping.
There is also a large counter which is also beautifully lit. The LEDs themselves cannot be seen anywhere as they are either hidden behind glass or mounted unobtrusively on wood. To counter the problem of excessive heat, Rutronik has installed more LEDs than are strictly necessary at critical locations. Each LED can therefore be operated at reduced power so it gives off less heat.
The RGB MULTILEDs contain three separate color chips in green, blue and red. Each chip can be controlled separately and the colors can be mixed as required. The result is an infinite number of colors in any intensity. Colors and color chases that are used regularly are programmed in a color schedule so they can run automatically. The rate at which the colors change can also be changed for added effect. At lunchtimes for example a single color is used to create a pleasant relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy the excellent cuisine. Any color scheme can be changed at the push of a button however to create a different mood.
A riot of color
In all there are 2560 MULTILEDs hidden throughout the building. They consume a total of 670 W and reward the owner not only with an exclusive atmosphere but also with reduced electricity costs. They consume 20% less energy than a comparable system based on halogen lamps. And there are virtually no maintenance costs because OSRAM LEDs last an incredibly long time.
In the future, LEDs will also be used to highlight the façade of the Platzhaus. The Platzhaus and the neighboring building will be fitted with a metal sheath of aluminum panels to which LEDs will be attached. LED light will then twinkle through the slits between adjacent panels to attract even more guests.
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