The Crystal Light Towers
 Engineering Model and Lighting Simulation
 Design One

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Section through the Gatehouse Tower.  
Mouseover turns off the lights.  
DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS

The glass is designed to look like various types of stone that have become transparent. Textures of varying scale on both interior and exterior surfaces catch, refract and scatter the rays passing over and through each block. Inclusions and impurities within the volume impede and deflect the rays, adding rich characteristics inherent to geologic structures.
   We have elected to place the light fixtures at the base of the glass portion, rather than at the top. This provides a totally indirect lighting, with no harsh rays striking anywhere. They are housed in the cavity fed by the central conduit in the concrete core of the stone section and are accessed through a door in the side hidden behind a stone, or faux stone, "plug".
   One flood and one 5°-10° cone angle spot, fire up the center to an inverted pyramid reflector under the cap at the top to distribute diffused light throughout the upper half and back down toward the ground. Placing the lights at the bottom results in a more favorable incidence angle to allow rays to better penetrate the glass surface and scatter outward along its length.
   This placement also facilitates changing bulbs by not having to get all the way to the top of the pylons, which is quite some distance above grade.

The lighting simulations below illustrate how the design works and integrates with the precious gentle environment surrounding them.

Due to the low light levels in the target environment, the simulations are best viewed under subdued lighting. Adobe Flash Player required.



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