THE CHALLENGES

Integrate a modern DALI lighting system with constant light control and occupancy detection

Enhace energy savings for the lighting consumption

Calon, in cooperation with Building Environment Controls integrated a modern DALI lighting system with constant light control and occupancy detection in the Manchester Airport, terminal 2. The lighting system is integrated in the airport’s BMS and flight control systems via BACnet. This allows automatic configuration at each gate according to the flight departure and arrival schedules, time of day, and ambient light level. The integral solution includes the following features: 

• Daylight and occupancy based lighting control. 

• Connection to the airport’s “Flight Information System”: The information regarding occupied gates is sent to the DALI lighting system. The set point is raised for occupied gates whereas it is lowered for currently unused gates. 

• “Maintenance-free” due to the use of LED technology. 

Altogether, 26 LOYTEC DALI Controller LDALI-ME204 are installed in the terminal. L-DALI Controllers are multifunctional devices for constant light control and gateway functions between BACnet and DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) systems. The controllers feature alarming, scheduling, and trending (AST™), and allow a smooth DALI integration into BACnet networks. The integrated Constant Light Controller allows controlling local DALI ballasts and luminaires via the BACnet network. It supports various lighting control strategies, presence and lux level based. Several parameters can be used to configure the Constant Light Controller for almost any use case. In emergency lighting systems, L-DALI can be used for testing the system. The results can be logged. For maximum transparency in the lighting system, L-DALI can record the operating hours of each lamp and also the projected energy consumption. The device configuration, commissioning, and parameterization of the connected DALI devices can be performed via the built-in web interface. Defective DALI ballasts can easily be replaced directly on the L-DALI Controller (LCD and jog dial) or via the web interface. No software tool is necessary.

The integration of the innovative DALI lighting system at Manchester Airport, Terminal 2, brings numerous benefits to both operational efficiency and passenger experience. By incorporating constant light control and occupancy detection, the system ensures optimal lighting conditions tailored to real-time needs. This capability not only enhances energy efficiency by reducing unnecessary lighting during periods of low activity but also contributes to a more comfortable and welcoming environment for passengers and staff alike. The system's integration with the airport's BMS and flight control systems via BACnet allows seamless coordination with flight schedules, automatically adjusting lighting at each gate. This feature not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances safety and convenience, ensuring that lighting levels are appropriate based on ambient light and occupancy. Furthermore, the use of LED technology ensures minimal maintenance requirements, reducing operational costs over time. Overall, the DALI lighting system at Terminal 2 not only enhances energy efficiency and operational flexibility but also improves the overall passenger experience through smart, responsive lighting solutions.

The new and more efficient luminaires that are used in the lighting system allow replacement savings of approximately 2,000 MWh annually. In addition, 1,000 MWh can be saved because of the automatic control functions of the installed lighting system. 

Projects for lighting control of the public areas of Terminals 1 & 3 are already in the planning stage.