Differentiating Lights through Color
In lighthouse operation, it is essential to distinguish between different lights to avoid confusion and ensure that mariners can accurately determine their position[1]. One method to differentiate lights is by using colored glass[1]. Lights can be white, red, or green[1]. Two fixed lights may be placed together or superposed, using the same or different colors, such as two white lights, two red lights, a red and white light, or a red and green light[1].
Colored Sectors as Indicators of Danger
An important service is performed by colored lights, which are used to indicate hazards[1]. The main light, whatever its individual character, is designed to do what may be called 'distant work'[1]. However, at many places, a subsidiary light of a special character is thrown from the lighthouse to mark any rocks or shoals in the immediate neighborhood[1]. Sailors know that they are in danger when seeing this special light and are assisted in shaping a course of safety[1]. The portions of the main light that are appropriated are generally given a special character by means of color and are called sectors[1]. This is practically achieved by simply causing the light going out in the direction of the dangers requiring to be indicated to pass through a vertical strip of colored glass[1]. Red is the color mostly employed, but it is plain that any kind of sector differing from the character of the main light will be applicable[1].
Examples of Color Usage in Lights
Lights could be differentiated by the use of colored glass white, red, or green[1]. On a portion of the south coast of England, variations are introduced including: White with red sectors, intermittent; White and red alternately, revolving; White and colored sectors, fixed; Green, fixed; Red, fixed[1]. The Longships Lighthouse uses a white light with red sectors[1]. The St. Anthony's Point, Falmouth lighthouse shows an upper light, white, revolving every twenty seconds, and a lower light, white, fixed, which is exhibited to clear the Manacle rocks[1].
Construction and Design Considerations
The design and construction of lighthouses, including the strategic use of colored lights, are crucial for maritime safety[1]. Engineers consider factors such as the position of the lighthouse, the intensity and range of its light, and the specific hazards in the area[1]. Color helps to communicate critical information to mariners, guiding them safely through dangerous waters[1]. Variations in aspect, range, and position has a special object[1].
Distinctive Characters Through Color Combinations
To enable the mariner to calculate his true position, distinction is made in the character of each light[1]. All lights come under two classes: either fixed or not fixed[1]. Fixed lights can be differentiated by the use of colored glass[1]. The second class can be varied more effectively[1]. Additionally, rays can come around in varying time intervals[1]. Colored shades may be introduced and made to revolve alternately with the white rays, or two colored rays may be shown to one white[1]. The goal is always to ensure that each light within a certain range has a completely distinctive individuality[1].
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