Overview
EN ISO/CIE 11664-3:2019 - Colorimetry, Part 3: CIE tristimulus values defines internationally accepted methods to compute CIE tristimulus values (X, Y, Z) from spectral data. It covers calculation procedures for colour stimuli produced by self‑luminous sources or by reflecting/transmitting objects, specifying required spectral sampling, recommended extrapolation/interpolation, and alternative abridged methods. The standard is compatible with the CIE 1931 (2°) and CIE 1964 (10°) standard colorimetric observers.
Key topics and requirements
- Tristimulus calculation methods: Standard method is summation at 1 nm intervals across 360–830 nm; formulas integrate the colour stimulus function with CIE colour‑matching functions to yield X, Y, Z.
- Sampling and spectral range: Colour stimulus functions must be tabulated at measurement intervals of ≤ 5 nm over at least 380–780 nm. Where measurements fall outside this range, the standard suggests extrapolation approaches.
- Abridged methods: Alternative methods allow larger intervals (up to 5 nm) or shorter ranges (down to 380–780 nm) but must be used only after reviewing the impact on results.
- Observer selection: Use CIE 1931 observer for fields subtending ~1°–4°, CIE 1964 for larger fields (>4°); consistent observer choice is required for comparative work.
- Supplementary treatments: Guidance on extrapolation, interpolation, instrument bandwidth correction, normalizing constants for self‑luminous and reflecting/transmitting stimuli, chromaticity coordinate computation, numerical procedures, and presentation of results.
Applications and who uses it
EN ISO/CIE 11664-3:2019 is essential for professionals and organizations involved in:
- Color science and research - spectroradiometric analysis and perceptual comparisons.
- Lighting and display engineering - spectral-to-color conversions for LEDs, lamps, and displays.
- Printing, paints and coatings, textiles - color measurement, specification and quality control.
- Metrology and test laboratories - traceable tristimulus calculations and instrument validation.
- Color management and imaging - accurate conversion of spectral data into device‑independent colour values.
Practical uses include calculating chromaticity coordinates, ensuring consistent color matching across materials and light sources, validating spectrometer data processing, and producing standardized colorimetric reports.
Related standards
- ISO/CIE 11664-1 - CIE standard colorimetric observers (normative for observer functions).
- ISO 23539 - Photometry: the CIE system of physical photometry.
- CIE S 017 - International Lighting Vocabulary (terms and definitions).
Keywords: EN ISO/CIE 11664-3:2019, colorimetry, CIE tristimulus values, tristimulus calculation, spectral distribution, CIE 1931 observer, CIE 1964 observer, spectral sampling, extrapolation, abridged methods.