Methods and apparatus related to controlling illumination on a lighting unit (10). The method includes reading orientation data from an orientation sensor (17) on the lighting unit as well as reading distance data from a distance sensor (15) on the lighting unit. A controller (63) is provided to control various light output surfaces (12) on the lighting unit. Once the controller determines the orientation of the lighting unit as well as distance data of the lighting unit from external structures or luminaire structures, the controller adjusts various light output characteristics of the lighting unit. The method may additionally include a memory storage which allows the controller to compare read data with stored data to determine an associated light fixture type for automated commissioning. Alternatively, the lighting unit can reconfigure itself to output light in various orientations based upon said read data.