The Challenge

In early 2008, JCDecaux Dicon, the global leader in advertising multimedia was awarded the contract to manage advertising space at the Dubai International Airport - Terminal 3. The challenge was to install almost 200 light boxes into pre-determined spaces across the Terminal Building (with only 8cm depth allowed) prior to its grand opening. The DCA as well as the architect had set forth strict deadlines & rigid design guidelines, which did not allow any lightboxes to protrude beyond the existing cladding, and had to remain flush to the wall. JCDecaux turned to Sign Works LLC to offer them a solution to fabricate energy efficient lightboxes that would fit within the space allowed of only 8cm deep, and be able to do it within the allotted timeframe, the budget. Additionally the requirement called for energy efficiency with a reduced power requirement than conventional lightboxes that use fluorescent lamp, but provide almost equal illumination.

The Solution

Sign Works LLC, rose to the challenge. By ruling out both options of using conventional fluorescent lamps and LED, Sign Works fabricated custom lightboxes using specialty extrusions imported from Europe to fit the tight niches in the wall. The illumination was of particular complexity where we needed a high LUX level which is generally provided by conventional fluorescent lamps at the same time the long life and low energy consumption which LEDs offer. Both traits were of high priority and had to be achieved simultaneously. The solution was derived by offering a new technology where the product used, provided the high LUX level of fluorescent lamps, while simultaneously offering the long life and low power requirement equal to that of LED. Additionally in complementing this, the flex face that was used was also specially imported from Europe to meet the high standards set forth by JCDecaux and Dubai Civil Aviation. In the end SIGN WORKS LLC completed the project within time, budget and up to the international standards set forth by JCDecaux, and the DCA.