Spectrophotometers are a commonly used tool and valuable technology for color measurement. Companies that purchase color measurement equipment can measure the tristimulus values of their sample on the CIE color model.

What Are Tristimulus Values?

The Commission Internationale de l'éclairage (CIE) color model is a color space model that accurately represents every color perceivable to the human eye. The CIE color model plots tristimulus values on a 3D space, which creates a unique color when combined.

Tristimulus values are the CIE reference stimuli in a trichromatic system that mimics human color perception. They are essential for color language because these measurements communicate precise color values without human subjectivity.

This system instrumentally determines the amount of red, green, and blue stimuli under standardized conditions to mimic how the human eye sees. The three values can be expressed as X, Y, and Z coordinates on a graph. The Y value represents the sample's luminance, and together, they represent the sample's color.

With the CIE color model, colors can be accurately expressed, communicated, and reproduced.

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Why Understanding Tristimulus Values and the CIE Color Model Is Important for Color Measurement

Tristimulus values and the CIE color model are valuable for color measurements because they:

  • Quantify color: Tristimulus values from a spectrophotometer give colors a quantifiable measurement value.
  • Objectify color: Tristimulus values are an objective — and reliable — measurement because the spectrophotometer cannot be influenced. The human eye is not the best method for color measurements because it can be easily influenced and is not objective. 
  • Communicate color: Tristimulus values allow a color to be communicated through values so it can be recreated.

The CIE model has many practical applications. In product development facilities, spectrophotometers can obtain tristimulus values to ensure color quality and consistency across products for color matching and product compatibility. Since tristimulus values are a reliable system, the results can be trusted as accurate.

The International Organization of Standardization harmonizes with the CIE color model and uses tristimulus values in multiple methods. These methods ensure compatibility between and regulate standards across industries.

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Color Measurement Solutions From HunterLab

HunterLab is a leader in spectrophotometric technology and has over 60 years of experience working with various industry leaders to develop the most efficient and reliable instrumentation available. As a trusted name in color measurement, we pride ourselves on our excellent customer support and strong relationships. We are here to help you understand your color measurement needs and how to use your device to get the most out of your investment.

Contact HunterLab today to learn why companies trust us to handle all their color measurement needs.