Technology and light have advanced a lot. Although many people take electric lighting as a given, it was a long journey that brought us to where we are today. There have been many failures and successes along the way. Let’s take a look at some history.
A Brief History
Many people remember learning about electric light in traditional terms in elementary school. Thomas Edison is incorrectly credited with the light we love and know today.
Edison was the inventor of the first commercially viable incandescent light in 1879. However, he was working in parallel with more than 20 other inventors, historians say. The unique combination of three factors made Edison’s version stand out: the use of incandescent material and the ability to create a vacuum higher than others, as well as his creation’s high resistance capabilities, which make it possible to distribute electricity economically from a central source.
In fact, the first electric light was invented in 1802 by Humphry Davy. He experimented with electric batteries and electricity. Davy created the first lamp, the Electric Arc. It was made by connecting wires to an electric battery and a piece of carbon. This lamp produced bright light for a brief time before it burned out. It was the basis for Edison’s later discoveries.
Key Manufacturing Milestones
The commercial manufacturing process as well as the production of light bulbs have several important dates. Here are some highlights:
- 1906 – The General Electric Company started producing tungsten filaments to be used in incandescent lamps.
- 1920 – William David Collidge, GE, created the longest-lasting tungsten filaments.
- 1920s – Frosted bulbs were introduced to the market, making them ideal for adjustable bean scenarios such as car headlamps or for neon lighting.
- 1930s – The advent of advanced technology in the industry was accompanied by a rush to create photography bulbs, including flashbulbs.
- 1940s – The invention of soft light bulbs was a major event.
- 1950s – The production of halogen lights bulbs and quartz glass began.
- 1980s – The creation of new low-wattage metal halides.
- 1990s – The introduction of compact fluorescents, bulbs with long life spans, and the debut of compact fluorescents.
Shifting Technology
The lighting market has seen a boom in recent years with new technology that offers a variety of desirable benefits and innovative features.
We’ve noticed several trends in recent weeks:
Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT), which is a technology that connects your favorite gadgets, including lighting fixtures, has seen an increase in connected devices in your home.
This technology connects with smartphones, tablets, and computers via built-in sensors. It allows you to control granular lighting options even when you’re not at home.
Wireless
Wireless lighting is a big hit in retrofitting projects. It can be controlled wirelessly and cabled without the need for connectivity.
LiFi
This article explains the basics of data technology. WiFi is applied to LED systems to create a light communication system that transforms outdoor and indoor environments into well-lit and efficient spaces.
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This article was written by a lighting specialist at LD lighting. LD Lighting was Established in 2017 and is located in Central Florida, LD Lighting offers services in screen enclosure lighting, pool lighting, outdoor entertainment, and Landscape Lighting In Brandon FL. We promise to give you the best quality of work and bring your ideas to life.