Digital color system and method which provides a visual match across different input and output viewing conditions

Abstract

A color management system that converts or transforms color signals between device dependent color spaces and a device-independent space using reference image viewing conditions for the device-independent space. A device transform converts input color signals of an input image in an input space into device-independent color signals and a visual adaption transform converts the device-independent input color signals into device-independent signals that take into account the input viewing conditions, the reference viewing conditions and adaption characteristics of the human visual system to the standard viewing conditions. This provides intermediate signals which represent device independent corresponding colorimetric values that would be required to visually match the appearance of the input image, as seen in its input viewing conditions under the defined reference viewing conditions of the device independent space. The intermediate signals can then be transformed into output color signals for output, taking into account the reference and output viewing conditions, and the particular color reproduction and gamut capabilities of the output device. The color signals can then be converted into renderable output signals and rendered on the output device. A preview output image for a preview display device can be produced after taking into account the output device characteristics and viewing environment. Transforms for intent and editing, such as sharpening the image or cutting and pasting, can be performed in the intermediate device-independent space and previewed before rendering by the output device.

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