Ball State University desired to improve the efficiency, flexibility, and quality of the court and public space lighting in the 11,500-seat Worthen Arena.  Loftus Engineering was engaged directly by the University to research the LED lighting options available, and design a full replacement of the court, spectator, and concourse lighting.  In addition to the lighting replacement, lighting controls were selected to allow more light level options and switching control.

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Loftus Engineering worked with multiple lighting and control manufacturers to develop a design that would allow competitive bidding among multiple, vetted light fixture manufacturers.  Existing HID, fluorescent, and quartz light fixtures were removed and replaced with energy-efficient, dimmable LED luminaires.

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The new lighting system was designed to meet NCAA Best Lighting Practices for Division 1 National Broadcast Level.  

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The full load power requirement for the arena and spectator lighting was reduced by 75% from the existing level by replacing predominantly quartz light fixtures with LED.  The concourse area lighting power draw was reduced by 55% from the existing level.

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The new lighting controls system upgraded the existing capacity of 5 manual presets to a user-friendly graphical interface with the potential for hundreds of programmable preset schemes.  Each LED fixture is independently controlled.  A greater number of controller locations were also provided with a portable controller for use on the playing floor.  The multiple preset arrangements allow the selection of the appropriate luminaires to be energized to tailor the lighting for each use. 

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In addition, a set of variable color/pattern robotic theatrical lights (GOBO) were installed and integrated into the controls to provide additional effects for the varied events planned for the arena.

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Loftus Engineering was responsible for all electrical, lighting, and lighting controls engineering services for the project.