A new smart laser photoluminescent light (LPL) technology for the optimization of the on-street lighting performance and the maximum energy saving: development of a prototype and field tests

Lighting demand in built environments corresponds to more than 10% of the global energy use, with great potential for energy saving thanks to innovative smart materials and combination of passive– active strategies. This paper focuses on an innovative smart lighting system based on a blue-diode laser technology combined with photoluminescent pavements, to obtain a self-lighting surface with a substantial reduction in electricity consumption. A laser variable angle scanner prototype was developed and operated through a dedicated management software. The prototype was installed in lab to measure the emitted luminance/illuminance of the pavement, its time decay, and the electricity consumption. This application is yet a prototype, the scanning area and the investigated pavement are more compatible with pedestrian street and sidewalk because of the lower illuminances to be maintained. The results were compared to standard solutions installed in typical roads. The results presented promising benefits in terms of electricity saving (about 40% compared to standard LEDs) and luminance uniformity (higher than 0.9 compared to standard systems, i.e. 0.17÷0.33). Important future ideas derive from preliminary experimental campaigns to improve the smart laser system, and the coupled pavement properties to reduce the consumptions and improve the lighting conditions for pedestrians and vehicles, within potential self-lighting streets.