The Basics of Color Assessment
by Victoria Eshoo · Sensient Imaging Technologies · August 1, 2007 - page(s): 88-95
Imagine trying to have a hundred people select two colors as an identical color match — not an easy task. For a variety of reasons, people perceive colors differently. As the need for color control grew, so did the need for people with “trained eyes,” creating positions called color matchers. But as technology grew, so did the scientific approach for color matching by removing the primary tool of human eyes as the criteria. Now computers perform measurements resulting in color consistencies with a far better degree of accuracy than in the past. However, it is a good manufacturing practice to use both computer measurements and a visual check as your standardized procedure.
The theory behind how these computers calculate human perception of color is based on how the human eye works. To see color we must first have three things. First, we must have a source of light, which provides a standardized amount of consistent energy. Second, the light needs an object to illuminate, transferring the energy. Third, we must have an instrument that can accurately and consistency measure color and analyze each measurement. It is critical that the customer and supplier agree on all factors that influence the appearance of color and determine the tolerances of an acceptable color match.
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