Light is more than a source of illumination. In a digitally connected society, lighting has become a key enabler of technological innovation, energy efficiency, communication, and human wellbeing. At the upcoming CIE 2025 Scientific Conference in Vienna, the MERLIN research group, part of the MOBI research centre at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), will present new research in advanced lighting systems that contribute to safer, smarter, and more sustainable environments.
The CIE: A Global Standard-Bearer in Lighting Science
The International Commission on Illumination (CIE), established in 1913, is the globally recognised authority on light, lighting, colour, and vision. It plays a critical role in developing international standards and technical guidance across sectors ranging from transport and architecture to healthcare and manufacturing.
The CIE Scientific Conference is held biennially and convenes researchers, engineers, and policymakers to exchange knowledge and shape the future of lighting. The 2025 edition in Vienna addresses the central theme of lighting in support of a digital society, with an emphasis on:
Energy efficiency and decarbonisation
Human-centric lighting and visual comfort
Optical wireless communication (e.g. Li-Fi)
Integration of lighting in connected and automated mobility
MERLIN: Lighting Innovation at the Intersection of Mobility and Technology
MERLIN (Mobility, Energy, Research and Lighting Innovation Network) was founded in 2020 as a research group within MOBI, VUB’s leading research centre for electromobility and energy systems. While MOBI is renowned for its work in electric vehicles, energy management, and mobility innovation, MERLIN expands this mission by focusing on smart, sustainable, and connected lighting technologies.
Through interdisciplinary research, MERLIN investigates how lighting can enhance transport safety, digital infrastructure, healthcare environments, and urban spaces.
Core Areas of Expertise
Vehicle lighting and intelligent transport systems
Public and indoor lighting design
Medical and therapeutic lighting solutions
Optical wireless communication (e.g. Li-Fi)
MERLIN also contributes actively to standards development through collaborations with the Belgian Institute for Lighting (BIV) and the CIE, ensuring its scientific expertise informs international policies and practices.
MERLIN Contributions at CIE 2025
MERLIN will present three peer-reviewed research papers at the conference, each addressing a distinct challenge in contemporary lighting science:
1. The Effect of Radiation Patterns on Vehicular Visible Light Communication
This study explores how the angular distribution of light emitted by vehicle-based sources influences the performance of visible light communication (VLC) systems. The findings are relevant for the development of vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication protocols, where maintaining signal integrity and consistency is crucial for safety and interoperability.
2. Assessment of the Validity of the Current Minimal Test Distances of (O)LED Luminaires
This work critically examines whether the existing standardised minimum test distances used in the photometric evaluation of LED and OLED luminaires remain appropriate. The study provides evidence-based recommendations to improve testing accuracy, particularly for compact and highly directional luminaires, which may not be adequately assessed under current guidelines.
3. Use of Stellated Apertures to Minimise Internal Forward Reflections in Stray Light Baffles
This presentation investigates the optical performance of stellated apertures — star-shaped openings — as a means to reduce internal forward reflections in stray light baffles. Such baffles are used in optical systems to suppress unwanted light, and this research proposes a novel aperture geometry that enhances stray light rejection while maintaining structural functionality. The findings are relevant for precision optical systems, including luminaires, sensors, and imaging devices.
Advancing Lighting for a Digital Society
MERLIN’s contributions to CIE 2025 exemplify the group’s broader mission to advance lighting technologies that support digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and human wellbeing. Whether through optical communication, improved testing standards, or novel aperture design, MERLIN continues to explore how light can shape a safer and more connected future.