Lighting planning

We do not leave good lighting to chance. At SBF, the development, design and production are preceded by careful lighting planning.

As well as considering possible reflections from surfaces, we also take account of the characteristics of different lamps. With the latest simulation processes, we calculate light scenarios for effective and energy-efficient lighting to suit the geometry and seating arrangement of the respective vehicle. In this, we take into account possible reflections of the surface as well as the characteristics of various light sources. The result is virtual lighting planning that is comprehensive and based on the latest light-physiological findings.

After all, passengers rightly expect perfect lighting, whatever the time of day or night.

Design and ergonomics

When developing and designing your solutions we use the latest 3D design programs and processes, otherwise familiar from automotive construction or the aerospace industry.

This virtual environment is used to design individual lamps in detail, as well as complete solutions for headlamps, staircase and ceiling lighting, coving, illuminated luggage racks and reading lights. The light not only needs to fulfil the actual purpose of the lighting source, but is also a key element in the feel-good factor among passengers. That's why we work around the clock to develop improvements in design and ergonomics.

Electronics

We aim to continuously development of the most advanced electronic components. Our trend scouts comb the world, discussing new ideas for the future use of lighting systems in trains with train companies and operators.

These days, a simple LED light is not enough to differentiate one product from another. Our added value involves the use of intelligent electronics with the capacity to learn. That's why almost 30% of our staff work as development engineers, lighting and application specialists, constantly pushing to find new and innovative solutions for the trains of the future. We provide these through our know-how and close partnership with the Technical Universities in Dresden and Ilmenau, as well as the Fraunhofer Institute. The latest electronic developments at SBF include the world’s first variable lamp controller adjusted to daily rhythms.

Production

Precise, flexible, customer-specific – an efficient Kanban system and modern quality management ensure consistently high quality in production.

With this in mind, we have built one of the most modern factories in Europe for LED lighting and ceiling designs, enabling us to produce in both small and large quantities. Intralogistics systems also ensure prompt production. All suppliers are audited. Successes in production also have a great deal to do with experience. Knowledge and tradition are passed on from person to person. Thus, SBF and all its engineers have been working on a “Quality Made in Germany” programme for over 150 years.