<title>Color capture, color management, and the problem of metamerism: does multispectral imaging offer the solution?</title>

Abstract

Color management systems are being introduced worldwide to improve the color quality of digital image capture and device independent electronic color image reproduction. To be able to supply device independent color data at interfaces in imaging systems, device dependent color correction is required. The paper discusses concepts envisaged for color correction in image capturing devices with respect to fundamental requirements on color analysis. The common image capturing technology is based on the use of three color channels. Main points of the discussion are the shortcomings of this technology to analyze metameric colors correctly and the question if this will be an essential point for future imaging technology. Further parts of the paper cover the alternative multispectral technology. Multispectral cameras delivering the complete spectrum of color stimuli of each pixel of an image are available in the laboratory. This technology offers s solution to the problem of metameric color analysis and offers flexibility to match different illuminants as well, yet, the amount of additional effort is large. The paper summarizes studies and ideas on multispectral color technology and on how this technology might be introduced in future imaging and color management systems.