Light Waves Concept Provides LED Evacuation Systems to DOD

Light Waves Concept, Inc., a New York-based LED (light emitting diode) manufacturer, is working with the Department of Defense on an evacuation system using LED technology. The project, set to go forward this winter, covers somewhat new territory for LED applications in the marketplace.

The system is comprised of LED rope lights connected to DMX controllers. The ropes will covertly line the hallways of a given structure. In the event of an emergency, the controllers will illuminate the ropes in a series of different flashing patterns and colors. The colors used will be those of a traffic light and will send the same signals to the evacuees: red for stop, green for go and yellow for move cautiously. Biochemical, motion and temperature sensors will feed the controllers data based on the nature and severity of the emergency.

Coming on the heels of a successful bid to similarly light underground tunnels for the Canadian parliament, the project marks the start of a new use for LED rope lights, which have been mostly used to highlight displays and buildings. It also marks the beginning of what government officials promise to be an eventual nationwide overhaul of the country's light sources. The Department of Energy has set in motion a plan to cut the nation's electrical lighting consumption in half by the year 2025. Such a goal would cut down on, if not completely eliminate, future construction on nuclear power plants. Light Waves recently retrofitted the traffic lights of Topeka, Kansas, with LEDs and is in negotiations with the Seattle Airport to replace the neon lights in terminals.

LEDs are made of semi-conductors, which produce light. For nearly two decades their uses were limited to electronic indicator lights and exit signs. In the last five years, however, the technology has doubled yearly, providing for a myriad of energy saving solutions. LEDs' advantages are monumental to environmental interests. One bulb uses 75% less energy and lasts at least 15 times as long as other light sources. Studies predict by 2040 the new technology will have completely replaced other artificial light sources in the developed world. Because of their long life and durable plastic housing, LEDs are especially useful in emergency management applications.

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Contact: Abbot Street Director of Marketing 800-670-8137 x1 abbot@lightwavesconcept.com