what does parabolic mean for lights?

[sirweldalot]

New to building maint. I was wondering how that works,what it means and all. Thanks.

 

[404]

It is the shape of the lamp reflector.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parabolic_reflector

Regards,
404

 

[cybrdyke]

Parabolic is the term used to describe the lens of the luminaire. Parabolics have reflective squares for a lens material rather than the clear acrylic material that is so common. The parabolic lens performs two functions really well. It focuses the light downward to the task plane well and it makes it so the source of the light cant be seen as you are looking across a room. This is a huge reduction of glare, which in a work environment can cause all kinds of physiological problems.
You'll normally see parabolic lenses in large cubicle areas. Hope this helps.
CD

 

[sirweldalot]

Thanks.

 

[KenC]

My definition is somewhat different! The Parabola is not the lens, but the reflector behind it. It focuses the light in the direction needed. The lens is designed to diffuse the light to reduce glare and shadows.

The term is also used to describe antenna shapes and many other items that rely on focusing to gather or distribute light or radio waves.

 

[hackwelder]