The Siemens subsidiary, Osram, is developing numerous innovative light sources for general and auto lighting. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are receiving special attention. The small dots of light produce electromagnetic radiation directly from the flow of electrons in semiconductors. With a light yield of up to 40 lumens per watt, LEDs are much more efficient than the common light bulb (6 to 12 lumens per watt) and are just under one square millimeter in size. The miniscule lights with the big effect are being used as automobile taillights and as flash units of mobile phone cameras. Future applications in high performance lighting functions such as automobile headlights or stadium floodlights are conceivable. Another type of LED possesses similar potential: OLEDs are composed of self-luminous, extremely flat, video-capable plastic and could, one day, revolutionize the market for displays. Also in development at Osram is a new lighting concept, which adjusts to the individual needs of a person. Depending on the time of day, the light from fluorescent lamps and LEDs are mixed to create an appropriate ambiance whereby the light spectrum is continuously modified. The goal is to increase the well-being and, thereby, boost the productivity of the consumer.
