Colour Perception: How Spectrophotometry Can Neutralize the Effects of Visual Discrimination

The effect of light on an object can change its colour appearance significantly. Perhaps you remember the notorious “Is That Dress White and Gold or Black and Blue?” debate-turned-viral phenomenon at the beginning of the year. Many people were surprised at how drastically colour perception could change based on lighting alone. However, this is not a new phenomenon. Colour measurement instrumentation has been used to address the issue of difference in colour perception for decades. In particular, spectrophotometry can measure the effects of direct and indirect light by controlling the light source and quantifying true colour in a controlled environment. This technology reduces visual discrimination and ensures colour consistency in a number of industrial applications.

In the image above, the blue lines in the top right corner are exactly the same colour as the green lines at the bottom left. This represents how colour perception and visual discrimination can be altered greatly by various elements.

Image Source: Flickr user Robson#

Controlling the elements that affect colour

Whether matching preformed car parts or measuring colour consistency in baked or fried foods, it is important to quantify various shades and hues in a way that matches the perception of colour as it is seen by the human eye. However, many elements affect colour perception such as lighting, viewing angle, surface texture, background colour, size, and shape. In addition to that, the subjectivity of visual discrimination from viewer to viewer means that people perceive colours differently. In order to ensure colour consistency throughout the various industry applications, colour measurement instrumentation is required to ensure a perfect match. Consider the picture below: both flowers are the same colour, but their exposure to light, position, and texture allow them to be perceived as different.

To maintain consistent colour perception, instrumentation must use human-eye technology for visual acceptance. This technology is based on a model of human colour perception, where a spectrophotometer is used to view light that is reflected or transmitted off of an object. Specific values are then recorded to correspond with the  spectrum of light that they represent, offering quantifiable and repeatable colour measurement data. Spectrophotometry is necessary to maintain a consistent colour across products, which helps to ensure the quality, safety, and longevity of hundreds of products.

Colour perception can change based on variations in lighting and these changes often influence consumer choice. Many industries utilize colour technology to monitor colour consistency and to match consumer expectations.

Image Source: Flickr user Les Haines

Applications of colour measurement technology

The ability to to accurately quantify colour allows manufacturers to consistently monitor their products, which offers valuable information that can safe both time and money. Many industries use colour measurement technology to meet regulatory standards and maintain quality in their products. As research and technology in colour perception and measurement  advance, the applications of spectrophotometry continue to show versatility and growth. Spectral technology provides a simple and easy to use tool that can be used for a variety of applications, such as those listed below:

• FOODS: In food and agricultural products, colour measurement instrumentation can be used to determine ripeness and peak harvesting dates, which can ensure a longer shelf-life for these products, thereby helping to meet consumer expectations. This same technology can also be used to determine the various components of dairy-based products. This helps to ensure product safety and proper labeling. Many snack food items depend on spectrophotometry to maintain consistent colour perception and repeatability from batch to batch.
• PHARMACEUTICALS: Colour measurement plays a significant role in the pharmaceutical industry. Spectral technology offers the ability to detect microscopic impurities that cannot be identified by the human eye alone. Specific prescription drug formulations rely on this technology to ensure proper dosage and to monitor products for impurities or safety issues. Colour itself is used in pharmaceutical products to differentiate between specific medications, allowing patients to easily identify their medications and avoid dangerous errors.
• CHEMICALS: The future of the chemical industry depends upon spectrophotometry to provide a non-destructive method of analysis. The applications of this technology continue to grow as new methods are discovered and research continues to develop. From paints and coatings to water purity and chemical compound identification, spectrophotometry is making its mark in the world of chemical analysis.
• PLASTICS: Plastics can range from polymer pellets and preformed plastics, to coatings and films used on many various industrial components. Colour technology allows manufacturers to monitor slight changes in colour and appearance. This technology is also being applied to energy saving materials that rely on reflective value measurement to provide better efficiency to consumers.

The HunterLab difference

At HunterLab, we cover a wide range of industry applications. Our expert staff is knowledgeable in the various methods of spectrophotometric analysis and by working with industry leaders, we have developed instrumentation specifically designed to meet each unique challenge or need. We offer a wide variety of spectrophotometers that are easy to use and have an option for an size of budget. Our friendly staff is here to answer questions and help you choose a colour measurement tool that will work best for your specific need. We provide continuing support to ensure that our instrumentation is utilized to its full potential and that you get the most out of your colour measurement tool. Contact HunterLab and see how spectrophotometry can revolutionize your business today.