Image processing apparatus and method, and profile generating method

Abstract

If gamut mapping (hue restoration) defined by one Lab color space is applied in color matching under different reference white points, the human vision perceives the hue as inconsistent. In view of this, input data which is dependent on a color space of an input device is converted by the conversion LUT 11 to color space data which is independent of any devices, based on a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original. The data is converted to data in the human color perception space by the forward converter 12, then subjected to gamut mapping, and converted back to data in the color space independent of any devices by the inverse converter 15, based on a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original. Then, the data is converted to output data in a color space which is dependent on an output device by the conversion LUT 16.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and method as well as a profile generating method, and more particularly, to an image processing apparatus and method for performing color matching according to ambient light, and a profile generating method.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual view of general color matching.

Input RGB data is converted by an input profile to XYZ data of a color space which does not depend on any devices. Since an output device cannot express colors outside the color reproduction range of the output device, gamut mapping is performed on the inputted data, which has been converted to the data in the device-independent color space, such that all colors of the inputted data fall within the color reproduction range of the output device. After the gamut mapping is performed, the inputted data is converted from the device-independent color space to CMYK data of a color space which is dependent on the output device.

In color matching, a reference white point and ambient light are fixed. For instance, according to a profile specified by the International Color Consortium (ICC), Profile Connection Space (PCS) for associating profiles uses XYZ values or Lab values based on D 50 characteristic. Therefore, correct color reproduction is guaranteed when an inputted original document and a printout are viewed under an illuminant of D 50 characteristic. Under an illuminant of other characteristics, correct color reproduction is not guaranteed.

When a sample (e.g., an image) is viewed under different illuminants, XYZ values of the viewed sample naturally vary. The XYZ values under various illuminants are predicted by conversion methods such as (1) scaling operation, (2) Von Kries conversion, and (3) prediction formula using a color appearance model.

In the scaling operation method, XYZ values under a reference white point W 1 are converted to XYZ values under a reference white point W 2 at a ratio of W 2 /W 1 . If this conversion method is applied to the Lab uniform color space, the Lab values under W 1 become equal to the Lab values under W 2 . Assuming that XYZ values of a sample under W 1 (Xw 1 , Yw 1 , Zw 1 ) are (X 1 , Y 1 , Z 1 ) and XYZ values of the sample under W 2 (Xw 2 , Yw 2 , Zw 2 ) are (X 2 , Y 2 , Z 2 ), the following relations are obtained by the scaling operation: $$ X2 = Xw2 Xw1 ⁢   ⁢ X1 Y2 = Yw2 Yw1 ⁢   ⁢ Y1 Z2 = Zw2 Zw1 ⁢   ⁢ Z1 } ( 1 )

According to the Von Kries conversion, XYZ values under the reference white point W 1 are converted to XYZ values under the reference white point W 2 at a ratio of W 2 ′/W 1 ′ in a human color perception space PQR. If this conversion method is applied to the Lab uniform color space, the Lab values under W 1 do not become equal to the Lab values under W 2 . Assuming that XYZ values of a sample under W 1 (Xw 1 , Yw 1 , Zw 1 ) are (X 1 , Y 1 , Z 1 ) and XYZ values of the sample under W 2 (Xw 2 , Yw 2 , Zw 2 ) are (X 2 , Y 2 , Z 2 ), the following relations are obtained by Von Kries conversion: $$ [ X2 Y2 Z2 ] = [   inv_Mat   ] ⁢   [ Pw2 / Pw1 0 0 0 Qw2 / Qw1 0 0 0 Rw2 / Rw1 ] ⁢   [   Mat   ] ⁢   [ X1 Y1 Z1 ] ( 2 )

where $$ [ Pw2 Qw2 Rw2 ] = [   Mat   ] ⁢   [ Xw2 Yw2 Zw2 ] ⁢ ( 3 ) [ Pw1 Qw1 Rw1 ] = [   Mat   ] ⁢   [ Xw1 Yw1 Zw1 ] ( 4 ) [   inv_Mat   ] = [ 1.85995 - 1.12939 0.21990 0.36119 0.63881 0 0 0 1.08906 ] ( 5 ) [   Mat   ] = [ 0.44024 0.70760 - 0.08081 - 0.22630 1.16532 0.04570 0 0 0.91822 ] ( 6 )

To convert XYZ values under a viewing condition VC 1 (including W 1 ) to XYZ values under a viewing condition VC 2 (including W 2 ), the prediction formula using a color appearance model, which is a conversion method such as CIE CAM 97s using the human color perception space QMH (or JCH) is employed. Herein, Q for QMH represents brightness, M represents colorfulness, and H represents hue quadrature or hue angle. J for JCH represents lightness, C represents chroma, and H represents hue quadrature or hue angle. If this conversion method is applied to the Lab uniform color space, the Lab values under W 1 are not equal to the lab values under W 2 , as similar to the case of the Von Kries conversion. Assuming that XYZ values of a sample under W 1 (Xw 1 , Yw 1 , Zw 1 ) are (X 1 , Y 1 , Z 1 ) and XYZ values of the sample under W 2 (Xw 2 , Yw 2 , Zw 2 ) are (X 2 , Y 2 , Z 2 ), the prediction formula using color appearance model performs the following conversion:

 ( X 1 , Y 1 , Z 1 )→[forward conversion of CIE CAM9 7 s]→( Q, M, H ) or ( J, C, H )→[inverse conversion of CIE CAM97s]→( X 2 , Y 2 , Z 2 )

In other words, if it is assumed that XYZ values under a reference white point which varies depending on a scaling operation can be converted, the contour lines of hue in the Lab color spaces under various reference white points are always the same. However, if human color perception is taken into consideration, such as the Von Kries conversion or prediction formula using a color appearance model, the contour lines of hue in the Lab color spaces under different reference white points vary depending on the reference white points.

Because of the above reason, if gamut mapping (hue restoration) defined under one Lab color space is applied to color matching under different reference white points, the human vision perceives the hue as inconsistent.

Moreover, in the current ICC profile, since the PCS is limited to XYZ values or Lab values based on D 50 characteristic, color matching corresponding to ambient light cannot be performed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is made in consideration of the above situation, and has as its object to provide an image processing apparatus and method for performing color matching, which enables human vision to perceive a constant hue even under different viewing conditions, and a method of generating a profile.

In order to attain the above object, the present invention provides an image processing apparatus for performing color matching process, the image processing apparatus comprising: first converting means for converting input image data in a color space dependent on an input device to first data, in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original in an independent color space which is independent of any device; second converting means for converting the first data to second data in a human color perception space; third converting means for converting the second data to third data in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original in the independent color space; and fourth converting means for converting the third data to image data to be outputted to an output device in a color space dependent on the output device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus and method capable of performing, at high precision and high speed, color matching corresponding to an ambient light without being limited to data of the device-independent color space based on a particular illuminant, and to provide a method of generating a profile.

In order to attain the above object, the present invention provides a profile generating method for generating a profile dependent on a viewing condition, the method comprising the steps of: converting color target data in independent color space to data in a human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the color target data; and converting the data in the color perception space to data in an independent color space, which is independent of any device, based on the viewing condition so as to generate the profile.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an image processing method for obtaining excellent color matching processing results by performing gamut mapping which is suitable to the purpose of color matching.

In order to attain the above object, the present invention provide an image processing method for performing gamut mapping on input image data, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a color matching mode from plural color matching modes; and performing the gamut mapping in accordance with the selected color matching mode.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the figures thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a conceptual view of color matching;

FIG. 2 is an explanatory view showing a concept of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process of reconstructing a conversion LUT which corresponds to an ambient light;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the process of updating a conversion LUT so as to correspond to an ambient light;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the process of performing gamut mapping in the color space JCH or QMH;

FIG. 7 shows a dodecahedron for approximating a color reproduction range;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are conceptual views of gamut mapping in the JCH color perception space;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are conceptual views of gamut mapping in the QMH color perception space;

FIGS. 10A and 10B are conceptual views of gamut mapping performed between different devices;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the process of reconstructing a conversion LUT which corresponds to an ambient light;

FIG. 12 is a conceptual view of color matching processing;

FIG. 13 is a conceptual view of color matching according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the process of performing gamut mapping in the color space JCH or QMH according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the process of reconstructing a conversion LUT which corresponds to an ambient light according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a conceptual view of color matching according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the process of updating a conversion LUT so as to correspond to an ambient light in the second embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a construction of an apparatus which realizes the functional configuration shown in FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 19 is an explanatory block diagram of a color appearance model used in the embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a conceptual view of a profile storing XYZ values of a white point under different illuminants, device-dependent RGB values of a color target, XYZ values corresponding to the color target under respective illuminants;

FIG. 21 shows a spectral distribution of a standard illuminant;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the process of conjecturing a colorimetric value from the colorimetric data for plural illuminants;

FIG. 23 shows an example in which a LUT, provided for mutually converting a device-independent color space under a viewing condition to a device-dependent color space, is stored in the ICC profile;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing caching processing;

FIG. 25 shows an example of a Graphic User Interface (GUI) for setting a parameter of a viewing condition according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 shows an example of a GUI which enables setting of a user level; and

FIG. 27 shows the GUI of FIG. 26 , whose user level is set in “professional level.”

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the image processing apparatus and method as well as the profile generating method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

First, a color appearance model used in the following embodiments is described with reference to FIG. 19 .

A color perceived by human visual system is different depending on conditions, such as the difference in lighting or a background on which a stimulus as a viewing subject is placed, even if the characteristic of light entering the eye is the same.

For instance, a white color, illuminated by an incandescent lamp, is not perceived as red as the characteristic of light entering the eye, but is perceived as white. A white color placed on a black background is perceived brighter than a white color placed on a bright background. The former phenomenon is known as chromatic adaptation and the latter is known as a contrast. In view of this, colors must be displayed not by the XYZ color system, but by the volume corresponding to a physiological activity level of visual cells distributed on the retina. For this purpose, a color appearance model has been developed. The CIE (Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage) recommends using the CIE CAM97s. This color appearance model utilizes color perception correlation values, which are H (hue), J (lightness) and C (chroma), or H (hue), Q (brightness) and M (colorfulness), as physiological three primary colors of color vision, and is considered as a color display method which do not depend upon viewing conditions. By reproducing colors so as to match the values of H, J and C or H, Q and M between devices, it is possible to solve the problem of different viewing conditions in an input image and output image.

Description will be provided with reference to FIG. 19 for the processing of forward conversion of the color appearance model CIE CAM97s, for performing correction processing (conversion from XYZ to JCH or QMH) in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an image to be inputted.

In step S 160 , LA indicative of a luminance of an adaptive visual field (cd/m 2 ) (normally, 20% of white luminance in the adaptive visual field is selected), XYZ indicative of relative tristimulus values of a sample under an illuminant condition, XwYwZw indicative of relative tristimulus values of a white light under the illuminant condition, and Yb indicative of a relative luminance of a background under the illuminant condition are set as the viewing condition information of an image to be inputted. Based on the type of viewing condition specified in step S 180 , a constant c indicative of an impact of surround, a chromatic induction factor Nc, a lightness contrast factor FLL, and an factor for degree of adaptation F are set as the viewing condition information of the input image in step S 170 .

Based on the input image viewing condition information set in steps S 160 and S 170 , the following processing is performed on the XYZ representing an input image.

First, the XYZ are converted based on the Bradford's three primary colors, which are considered as human physiological three primary colors, to obtain RGB corresponding to Bradford's cone response (step S 100 ). Since human vision does not always completely adapt to the viewing illuminant, a variable D indicative of adaptability is obtained based on a luminance level and a viewing condition (LA and F). Based on the obtained variable D and XwYwZw, incomplete adaptation processing is performed on RGB to be converted to RcGcBc (step S 110 ).

Next, RcGcBc is converted based on Hunt-Pointer-Estevez's three primary colors, which are considered as human physiological three primary colors, to obtain R′G′B′ corresponding to Hunt-Pointer-Estevez's cone response (step S 120 ). The adaptability of R′G′B′ is estimated by a stimulus intensity level to obtain R′aG′aB′a corresponding to an adapted cone response which corresponds to both the sample and white (step S 130 ). Note that in step S 130 , non-linear response compression is performed by using a variable FL which is calculated based on the luminance LA of the adaptive visual field.

Then, to obtain the correlation between a color perception and the XYZ, the following processing is performed.

Opposite color responses a and b of red-green and yellow-blue are calculated from R′aG′aB′a (step S 140 ), and a hue H is calculated from the opposite color responses a and b and a eccentricity factor (step S 150 ).

Then, a background inducing coefficient n is calculated from Yw and the relative luminance Yb of the background. By using the background inducing coefficient n, achromatic color responses A and Aw with respect to both the sample and white are calculated (step S 190 ). Lightness J is calculated by using a coefficient z, calculated from the background inducing coefficient n and lightness contrast factor FLL, and the achromatic color responses A and Aw as well as the impact of surround constant c (step S 151 ). A saturation S is calculated from the chromatic induction factor NL (step S 153 ), then from the saturation S and lightness J, a chroma C is calculated (step S 152 ), and a brightness Q is calculated from the lightness J and achromatic color response Aw for white (step S 154 ).

A colorfulness M is calculated from the variable FL and impact of surround constant c (step S 155 ).

First Embodiment

Description is provided for the first embodiment in which a profile is dynamically changed in accordance with a viewing condition.

Referring to FIG. 2 which describes a concept of the present invention, reference numeral 11 denotes a conversion matrix or a conversion lookup table (LUT) for converting data which is dependent on an input device (hereinafter referred to as input-device-dependent data) to data of the device-independent color space (hereinafter referred to as input-independent data), which accords to a white point of ambient light at the time of viewing an image formed on an original. Reference numeral 12 denotes a forward converter (CAM) of a color appearance model for converting data, obtained from the conversion LUT 11 , to human color perception color space JCh or QMh. Reference numeral 13 denotes a relative color perception space JCh (or JCH) relative to the reference white of an ambient light; and 14 , an absolute color perception space QMh (or QMH) whose size changes in accordance with an illuminance level. Reference numeral 15 denotes an inverse converter of a color appearance model for converting data of the human's color perception space JCh or QMh to data of the device independent color space (hereinafter referred to as output-independent data), which accords to a white point of ambient light at the time of viewing an image formed on a printout. Reference numeral 16 denotes a conversion LUT for converting data, obtained from the inverse converter 15 , to data which is dependent on an output device (hereinafter referred to as output-device-dependent data).

Generally, the white point of ambient light under a viewing condition is different from a white point of the standard illuminant at the time of colorimetry of a color target or color patch or the like. For instance, the standard illuminant used at the time of colorimetry is D 50 or D 65 , but an ambient light for actually viewing an image is not always D 50 or D 65 in a light booth. An illumination light from an incandescent lamp or fluorescent light, or a combination of illumination light and sunlight are often used as the ambient light in which the image is actually viewed. In the following description, although an illuminant characteristic of an ambient light under a viewing condition is assumed as D 50 , D 65 and D 93 to simplify the description, in reality, XYZ values of a white point on a medium is set as a white point.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the present embodiment. In FIG. 3 , reference numeral 41 denotes a data generation portion for generating data, which is dependent on the viewing condition 1 of a data input side, based on an input profile 42 and the viewing condition 1. Reference numeral 43 denotes a gamut mapping mode selection portion for selecting whether the gamut mapping is performed in the JCH color perception space or in the QMH color perception space in accordance with designation by a user or designation by the profile. Reference numerals 44 and 45 denote gamut mapping portions respectively for performing gamut mapping on data in the JCH or QMH color perception space in accordance with an output profile 46 . Reference numeral 47 denotes a data generation portion for generating data, which is dependent on a viewing condition 2 of an image output side, based on the output profile 46 and viewing condition 2. Reference numeral 48 denotes a color matching portion for performing color matching by utilizing the data which is dependent on the viewing condition 1, the gamut mapped data, the data which is dependent on the viewing condition 2, and color appearance model.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a construction of an apparatus which realizes the functional configuration shown in FIG. 3 . It goes without saying that the apparatus shown in FIG. 18 is realized by supplying a general computer apparatus, such as a personal computer or the like, with software which realizes the function shown in FIG. 3 . In this case, the software which realizes the function of the present embodiment may be included in the Operating System (OS) which is the basic system software of the computer apparatus, or may be provided, for instance, as a driver software of an input/output device independently of the OS.

In FIG. 18 , a CPU 100 controls operation of the entire apparatus according to a program stored in a ROM 101 and hard disk (HD) 106 and the like, by utilizing a RAM 102 as a work memory, and executes various processing including the processing related to the above-described color matching. An input interface 103 is provided to connect an input device 104 ; a hard disk interface 105 is provided to connect the HD 106 ; a video interface 107 is provided to connect a monitor 108 ; and an output interface 109 is provided to connect an output device 110 .

Note that the input device according to the present embodiment includes an image sensing device such as a digital still camera or a digital video camera or the like, and various image input devices including an image reader such as an image scanner or film scanner or the like. The output device according to the present embodiment includes a color monitor such as a CRT or LCD or the like, and an image output device such as a color printer or film recorder or the like.

A general interface is utilized as the interface of the present embodiment. Depending on the usage purpose, a serial interface such as RS232C, RS422 or the like, a serial bus interface such as IEEE 1394, Universal Serial Bus (USB) or the like, and a parallel interface such as SCSI, GPIB, centronics or the like, are applicable.

Input/output profiles for color matching are stored in the HD 106 . However, the storage medium is not limited to hard disk, but may be an optical disk such as a magneto-optical disk (MO) or the like.

Hereinafter, description is provided for an example of performing color matching by using the input/output profiles.

[Generating Data Dependent on Viewing Condition 1]

The conversion LUT 11 is generated by the data generation portion 41 . Methods of generating the conversion LUT 11 include: a method of reconstructing the conversion LUT 11 so as to correspond to an ambient light, based on a relation between XYZ values (or Lab values) of a color target and RGB values of an input device as shown in FIG. 4 ; and a method of updating a conversion LUT stored in the input profile 42 , which is provided for converting an RGB space dependent on a device to XYZ color space, to the conversion LUT 11 which corresponds to the ambient light.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process of reconstructing the conversion LUT 11 which corresponds to an ambient light.

To reconstruct the conversion LUT 11 so as to correspond to an ambient light, a profile designated by a user is read from the input profile 42 in step S 51 . XYZ values (or Lab values) of the color target and XYZ-to-RGB relation data, which associates the XYZ values with RGB values for a case of reading the color target by an input device, are stored in advance in the profile. The XYZ-to-RGB relation data is obtained from the profile in step S 52 . Since the profile includes a viewing condition 1, the viewing condition 1 is obtained from the profile in step S 53 .

The XYZ values of the XYZ-to-RGB relation data, obtained in step S 52 , employ as a reference, D 50 or D 65 indicative of a reference light at the time of colorimetry of the color target. Therefore, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference must be corrected to XYZ values of an ambient light reference. In step S 54 , by using the color appearance model, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH based on a colorimetric condition, i.e., the white point of D 50 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light, and then the converted values in the color perception space JCH are converted back to XYZ values based on the viewing condition 1 different from the colorimetric condition, e.g., the white point of D 65 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light. By this, XYZ values of the ambient light reference are obtained. In the foregoing manner, the relation between XYZ values of the ambient light reference and device RGB values is obtained. In step S 55 , an RGB-to-XYZ conversion matrix is generated based on the RGB-to-XYZ relation data and optimized by repetition or the like, thereby obtaining the conversion LUT 11 which corresponds to the viewing condition 1.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the process of updating the conversion LUT, stored in the input profile 42 , to the conversion LUT 11 which corresponds to an ambient light. Note that the steps in FIG. 5 executing the same processing as those in FIG. 4 have the same reference step number, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

Generally in the ICC profile for an input device, a conversion matrix (colorant Tag) for performing RGB-to-XYZ conversion, or a conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag) is stored. Thus, the RGB-to-XYZ relation data is obtained from the profile in step S 62 .

In step S 54 , the relation between XYZ values of the ambient light reference and device RGB values is obtained. Then in step S 66 , the conversion matrix (colorant Tag) or conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag) in the profile is updated. As a result, a conversion LUT, updated to the conversion LUT 11 corresponding to the viewing condition 1, is obtained.

Moreover, although FIGS. 4 and 5 provide an example of utilizing the RGB-to-XYZ relation data, the present invention is not limited to this, but may utilize other device-independent color data such as RGB-to-Lab relation data.

[Selecting Gamut Mapping Mode and Performing Gamut Mapping]

A gamut mapping mode is selected by a user through a user interface, or automatically selected by Rendering Intent included in the header of a source profile. The following selection is made in the automatic selection according to the profile.

Perceptual—gamut mapping mode in JCH color space

Relative Colorimetric—gamut mapping mode in JCH color space

Saturation—gamut mapping mode in JCH color space

Absolute Colorimetric—gamut mapping mode in QMH color space

In other words, in a case of relative color matching, JCH space 13 is selected, while in a case of absolute color matching, QMH space 14 is selected.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the process of performing the gamut mapping in the color perception space JCH 13 or color perception space QMH 14 .

In order to perform the gamut mapping in a color perception space, a profile designated by a user is read from the output profile 46 in step S 81 .

Generally in the ICC profile for an output device, a judgment LUT (gamut Tag), to which XYZ values or Lab values are inputted, is stored in order to judge inside or outside the color reproduction range (hereinafter referred to as inside/outside judgment of the color reproduction range). However, because the XYZ values employ D 50 or D 65 which is the characteristic of colorimetric illuminant as a reference, the XYZ values cannot be used directly to make judgment of inside/outside the color reproduction range according to an ambient light. Therefore, instead of using the judgment LUT (gamut Tag) which judges inside/outside the color reproduction range, CMYK-to-XYZ relation data is obtained in step S 82 from the conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag or the like), stored in the profile for CMYK-to-XYZ conversion. Since the profile includes the viewing condition 2, the viewing condition 2 is obtained from the profile in step S 83 .

The XYZ values of the CMYK-to-XYZ relation data, obtained in step S 82 , employ as a reference, D 50 or D 65 indicative of a colorimetric light. Therefore, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference must be corrected to XYZ values of an ambient light reference. In step S 84 , by using the color appearance model, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH based on a colorimetric condition, i.e., the white point of D 50 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light, and then the converted values in the color perception space JCH are converted back to XYZ values based on the viewing condition 2 different from the colorimetric condition, e.g., the white point of D 65 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light. By this, XYZ values of the ambient light reference are obtained. In the foregoing manner, the relation between the device CMYK values and XYZ values of the ambient light reference is obtained in step S 84 . In step S 85 , a color reproduction range of an output device in the JCH or QMH color space is obtained based on the CMYK-to-ambient-light-XYZ relation data obtained in step S 84 .

The color reproduction range of an output device in the JCH or QMH color space is obtained as follows. XYZ values of an ambient light reference on the following eight points, shown as an example, are obtained by using the CMYK-to-ambient-light-XYZ relation data obtained in step S 84 .

Red     (C: 0%, M: 100%, Y: 100%, K: 0%)
Yellow  (C: 0%, M: 0%, Y: 100%, K: 0%)
Green   (C: 100%, M: 0%, Y: 100%, K: 0%)
Cyan    (C: 100%, M: 0%, Y: 0%, K: 0%)
Blue    (C: 100%, M: 100%, Y: 0%, K: 0%)
Magenta (C: 0%, M: 100%, Y: 0%, K: 0%)
White   (C: 0%, M: 0%, Y: 0%, K: 0%)
Black   (C: 0%, M: 0%, Y: 0%, K: 100%)

Then, the obtained XYZ values are converted to coordinate values in the color perception space JCH or QMH based on the viewing condition 2 by using the color appearance model. By this, the color reproduction range of the output device can be approximated by a dodecahedron shown in FIG. 7 .

In the color reproduction range approximated by the dodecahedron, for instance, if an intermediate point between White and Black on an achromatic color axis and a point represented by JCH values or QMH values of an input color signal subjected to inside/outside judgment exist in the same side, it is judged that the input color signal is inside the color reproduction range, while if these points exist in the opposite sides, it is judged that the input color signal is outside the color reproduction range.

Based on the result of inside/outside judgment of the color reproduction range in step S 85 , the gamut mapping is performed in step S 86 . FIGS. 8A and 8B are conceptual views of the gamut mapping in the JCH color perception space. FIGS. 9A and 9B are conceptual views of the gamut mapping in the QMH color perception space. If an input color signal is judged as being outside the color reproduction range of the output device in the aforementioned inside/outside judgment, the input color signal is mapped in the color reproduction range such that a hue angle h (or H) is preserved in the JCH color perception space or QMH color perception space. The mapping result is stored in the LUT for the JCH color perception space in a case of relative color matching, or stored in the LUT for the QMH color perception space in a case of absolute color matching.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are conceptual views of the gamut mapping performed between different devices. In the drawings, the broken lines indicate a color reproduction range of an input device, and the solid lines indicate a color reproduction range of an output device. In the JCH color perception space, the level of J (lightness) is normalized respectively by illuminant white points under the viewing conditions 1 and 2 (hereinafter referred to as “white point 1” and “white point 2”). Thus, J does not depend on the illuminance levels of the viewing conditions 1 and 2 (hereinafter referred to as “illuminance level 1” and “illuminance level 2”). On the other hand, in the QMH color perception space, the level of Q (brightness) changes in accordance with the illuminance levels 1 and 2. Therefore, in the relative color matching, the white point 1 becomes the white point 2. Meanwhile in the absolute color matching, if illuminance level 1>illuminance level 2, the white point 1 is mapped to the white point 2. If illuminance level 1<illuminance level 2, the white point 1 is outputted in gray color because the white point 1 is lower than white point 2.

[Generating Data Dependent on Viewing Condition 2]

Next, the conversion LUT 16 is generated by the data generation portion 47 .

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the process of reconstructing the conversion LUT 16 which corresponds to an ambient light.

Generally in the ICC profile for an output device, a LUT (BtoA0 Tag or the like) for converting XYZ or Lab values to device CMYK or RGB values is stored in the form including information of the gamut mapping. However, since the XYZ values inputted to the LUT employ D 50 or D 65 as a reference, the XYZ values cannot be directly used as a conversion LUT which corresponds to an ambient light.

As similar to the gamut mapping processing, a conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag or the like) for performing CMYK-to-XYZ conversion is read from the output profile 46 in step S 71 , and CMYK-to-XYZ relation data is obtained from the conversion LUT in step S 72 . Note that CMYK values of the CMYK-to-XYZ relation data may be other device-dependent colors such as RGB values or the like, and XYZ values may be other device-independent colors such as Lab values or the like. In step S 73 , the viewing condition 2 is obtained from the output profile 46 which stores the viewing condition 2 in advance.

The XYZ values of the obtained CMYK-to-XYZ relation data employ D 50 or D 65 as a reference. Therefore, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference must be corrected to XYZ values of an ambient light reference in step S 74 . More specifically, by using the color appearance model, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH based on a colorimetric condition, i.e., the white point of D 50 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light, and then the converted values in the color perception space JCH are converted back to XYZ values based on the viewing condition 2 different from the colorimetric condition, e.g., the white point of D 65 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light. By this, XYZ values of the ambient light reference are obtained. In the foregoing manner, the relation between the device CMYK values and XYZ values of the ambient light reference is obtained. In step S 75 , ambient light XYZ-to-CMYK relation data is optimized by repetition or the like, using the CMYK-to-ambient-light-XYZ relation data, thereby obtaining the conversion LUT 16 which corresponds to a desired ambient light.

[Executing Color Matching]

FIG. 12 is a conceptual view of color matching processing. Reference numeral 11 denotes a conversion LUT generated based on the viewing condition 1 by the data generation portion 41 ; 132 , a LUT generated in the JCH color space by the gamut mapping portion 44 ; 133 , a LUT generated in QMH color space by the gamut mapping portion 45 ; and 16 , a conversion LUT generated based on the viewing condition 2 by the data generation portion 47 .

RGB or CMYK input color signals are converted by the conversion LUT 11 from the input-device-dependent color signals to XYZ signals which are device-independent signals under the viewing condition 1. Next, the XYZ signals are converted by color appearance model forward converters 134 and 135 to perception signals JCH or QMH, based on the viewing condition 1, such as the white point of D 50 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light. In a case of relative color matching, JCH space is selected, while in a case of absolute color matching, QMH space is selected.

The color perception signals JCH and QMH are mapped to a color reproduction range of the output device by the LUT 132 and 133 . The color perception signals JCH and QMH, where the gamut mapping has been performed, are converted by color appearance model inverse converters 136 and 137 to XYZ signals which are device-independent signals under the viewing condition 2, based on the viewing condition 2, such as the white point of D 65 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light. Then, XYZ signals are converted to output-device-dependent color signals under the viewing condition 2 by the conversion LUT 134 .

The RGB or CMYK signals obtained by the above processing are sent to the output device, and an image represented by the color signals is printed. When the printout is viewed under the viewing condition 2, the colors of the printout are perceived as the same as the original document viewed under the viewing condition 1.

Second Embodiment

Hereinafter, described as a second embodiment is an example of color matching utilizing an input profile and monitor profile shown in FIG. 13 . Note that the construction and processing similar to that of the first embodiment will not be described in detail.

[Generating Data Dependent on Viewing Condition 1]

A conversion LUT 21 shown in FIG. 13 is generated by the data generation portion 41 in the same method as described in the first embodiment, i.e., the processing shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 .

[Selecting Gamut Mapping Mode and Performing Gamut Mapping]

Since the selection of a gamut mapping mode is performed in the same manner as that of the first embodiment, detailed description will not be provided.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the process of performing the gamut mapping in the color perception space JCH 23 or color perception space QMH 24 shown in FIG. 13 .

To perform the gamut mapping in a color perception space, a profile designated by a user is read from a monitor profile 142 in step S 141 .

Generally in the ICC profile for a monitor device, a judgment LUT (gamut Tag), to which XYZ values or Lab values are inputted, is often stored in order to make inside/outside judgement of the color reproduction range. However, because the XYZ values employ D 50 or D 65 which is the characteristic of colorimetric illuminant as a reference, the XYZ values cannot be used directly to make judgment of inside/outside the color reproduction range according to an ambient light. Therefore, instead of using the judgment LUT (gamut Tag) which judges inside/outside the color reproduction range, RGB-to-XYZ relation data is obtained in step S 142 from a conversion matrix (colorant Tag) or conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag or the like), stored in the profile for RGB-to-XYZ conversion. Since the monitor profile includes a monitor viewing condition 4, the viewing condition 4 is obtained from the monitor profile in step S 143 . Note that XYZ values of the RGB-to-XYZ relation data may be other device-independent color values such as Lab values.

The XYZ values of the RGB-to-XYZ relation data, obtained in step S 142 , employ D 50 indicative of a colorimetric light, or a monitor's white point as a reference. Therefore, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference must be corrected to XYZ values of an ambient light reference. In step S 144 , by using the color appearance model, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH based on a colorimetric condition, i.e., the white point of D 50 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light, and then the converted values in the color perception space JCH are converted back to XYZ values based on the viewing condition 4 different from the colorimetric condition, e.g., the white point of D 93 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light. By this, XYZ values of the ambient light reference are obtained. In the foregoing manner, the relation between the device RGB values and XYZ values of the ambient light reference is obtained. In step S 145 , a color reproduction range of a monitor device in the JCH or QMH color space is obtained.

The color reproduction range of a monitor device is obtained as follows. XYZ values of an ambient light reference on the following eight points, shown as an example, are obtained by the conversion processing of XYZ reference condition in step S 144 .

Red     (R: 255, G: 0, B: 0)
Yellow  (R: 255, G: 255, B: 0)
Green   (R: 0, G: 255, B: 0)
Cyan    (R: 0, G: 255, B: 255)
Blue    (R: 0, G: 0, B: 255)
Magenta (R: 255, G: 0, B: 255)
White   (R: 255, G: 255, B: 255)
Black   (R: 0, G: 0, B: 0)

Then, the obtained XYZ values are converted to coordinate values in the color perception space JCH or QMH based on the viewing condition 4 by using the color appearance model. By this, the color reproduction range of the monitor device can be approximated by a dodecahedron shown in FIG. 7 . In the color reproduction range approximated by the dodecahedron, for instance, if an intermediate point between White and Black on an achromatic color axis and a point represented by JCH values or QMH values of an input color signal subjected to inside/outside judgment exist in the same side, it is judged that the input color signal is inside the color reproduction range, while if these points exist in the opposite sides, it is judged that the input color signal is outside the color reproduction range.

Based on the result of inside/outside judgment of the color reproduction range in step S 145 , the gamut mapping is performed in step S 146 . FIGS. 8A and 8B are conceptual views of the gamut mapping in the JCH color perception space. FIGS. 9A and 9B are conceptual views of the gamut mapping in the QMH color perception space. If an input color signal is judged as being outside the color reproduction range of the output device in the aforementioned inside/outside judgment, the input color signal is mapped in the color reproduction range such that a hue angle h (or H) is preserved in the JCH color perception space or QMH color perception space. The color reproduction range obtained in step S 146 is stored in the LUT for the JCH color perception space in a case of relative color matching, or stored in the LUT for the QMH color perception space in a case of absolute color matching.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are conceptual views of the gamut mapping performed between different devices. In the drawings, the broken lines indicate a color reproduction range of an input device, and the solid lines indicate a color reproduction range of an output device. In the JCH color perception space, the level of J (lightness) is normalized respectively by illuminant white points under the viewing conditions 1 and 4 (hereinafter referred to as “white point 1” and “white point 4”). Thus, J does not depend on the illuminance level of the viewing condition 1 and luminance level of the viewing condition 4 (hereinafter referred to as “illuminance level 1” and “luminance level 4”). On the other hand, in the QMH color perception space, the level of Q (brightness) changes in accordance with the illuminance level 1 and luminance level 4. Therefore, in the relative color matching, the white point 1 becomes the white point 4. Meanwhile in the absolute color matching, if illuminance level 1>luminance level 4, the white point 1 is mapped to the white point 4. If illuminance level 1<luminance level 4, the white point 1 is outputted in gray color because the white point 1 is lower than white point 4.

[Generating Data Dependent on Viewing Condition 4]

Next, the conversion LUT 26 shown in FIG. 13 is generated by the data generation portion 47 .

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the process of reconstructing the conversion LUT 26 which corresponds to an ambient light.

In the ICC profile for a monitor device, there are cases in which a LUT (BtoA0 Tag or the like) for converting XYZ to device RGB values is stored in the form including information of the gamut mapping. However, since the XYZ values inputted to the LUT employ D 50 or D 65 as a reference, the XYZ values cannot be directly used as a conversion LUT which corresponds to an ambient light.

As similar to the gamut mapping processing, a conversion matrix (colorant Tag) or a conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag or the like) for performing RGB-to-XYZ conversion is read from the monitor profile 142 in step S 151 , and RGB-to-XYZ relation data is obtained from the conversion LUT in step S 152 . Note that XYZ values of the RGB-to-XYZ relation data may be other device-independent color values, such as Lab values or the like. In step S 153 , the viewing condition 4 is obtained from the monitor profile 142 which stores the viewing condition 4 in advance.

The XYZ values of the obtained RGB-to-XYZ relation data employ D 50 or monitor's white point as a reference. Therefore, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference must be corrected to XYZ values of an ambient light reference in step S 154 . More specifically, by using the color appearance model, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH based on a colorimetric condition (the white point of D 50 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light), and then the converted values in the color perception space JCH are converted back to XYZ values based on the viewing condition 4 (the white point of D 93 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light) which is different from the colorimetric condition. By this, XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to XYZ values of the ambient light reference. In the foregoing manner, the relation between the device RGB values and XYZ values of the ambient light reference is obtained. In step S 155 , the RGB-to-XYZ conversion is formulated into a model such as a conversion matrix and optimized by repetition or the like, thereby obtaining the conversion LUT 26 which corresponds to a desired ambient light.

[Executing Color Matching]

FIG. 12 is a conceptual view of color matching processing. Reference numeral 21 denotes a conversion LUT generated based on the viewing condition 1 by the data generation portion 41 ; 132 , a LUT generated in the JCH color space by the gamut mapping portion 44 ; 133 , a LUT generated in QMH color space by the gamut mapping portion 45 ; and 26 , a conversion LUT generated based on the viewing condition 4 by the data generation portion 47 .

RGB input color signals are converted by the conversion LUT 21 from the input-device-dependent color signals to XYZ signals which are device-independent signals under the viewing condition 1. Next, the XYZ signals are converted by color appearance model forward converters 134 and 135 to perception signals JCH or QMH, based on the viewing condition 1, such as the white point of D 50 illuminant, an illuminance level, and the state of ambient light. In a case of relative color matching, JCH space is selected, while in a case of absolute color matching, QMH space is selected.

The color perception signals JCH and QMH are mapped to a color reproduction range of the monitor device by the LUT 132 and 133 . The color perception signals JCH and QMH, where the gamut mapping has been performed, are converted by color appearance model inverse converters 136 and 137 to XYZ signals which are device-independent signals under the viewing condition 4, based on the viewing condition 4, such as the white point of D 93 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light. Then, XYZ signals are converted to monitor-device-dependent color signals under the viewing condition 4 by the conversion LUT 26 .

The RGB signals obtained by the above processing are sent to the monitor device, and an image represented by the color signals is displayed on the monitor device. When the displayed image is viewed under the viewing condition 4, the colors of the displayed image are perceived as the same as the original document viewed under the viewing condition 1.

Third Embodiment

Hereinafter, described as a third embodiment is an example of color matching utilizing a monitor profile and output profile shown in FIG. 16 . Note that the construction and processing similar to that of the first and second embodiments will not be described in detail.

In the ICC profile for a monitor device, a conversion matrix (colorant Tag) or a conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag) for performing RGB-to-XYZ conversion is stored. In step S 162 in FIG. 17 , RGB-to-XYZ relation data is obtained. Since the profile includes the viewing condition 4, the viewing condition 4 is obtained from the profile in step S 163 . Note that XYZ values of the RGB-to-XYZ relation data may be other device-independent color values such as Lab values.

The XYZ values of the obtained RGB-to-XYZ relation data employ D 50 or monitor's white point as a reference. Therefore, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference must be corrected to XYZ values of an ambient light reference in step S 164 . More specifically, by using the color appearance model, the XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH based on a colorimetric condition (the white point of D 50 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light), and then the converted values in the color perception space JCH are converted back to XYZ values based on the viewing condition 4 (the white point of D 93 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light), which is different from the colorimetric condition. By this, XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to XYZ values of the ambient light reference. In the foregoing manner, the relation between the device RGB values and XYZ values of the ambient light reference is obtained. In step S 165 , the conversion matrix (colorant Tag) or conversion LUT (AtoB0 Tag) in the monitor profile 142 is updated, thereby obtaining a conversion LUT 31 which corresponds to a desired ambient light.

[Selecting Gamut Mapping Mode and Performing Gamut Mapping]

Since the selection of a gamut mapping mode is performed in the same manner as that of the first embodiment, detailed description will not be provided. Furthermore, since the gamut mapping is also performed in the same manner as that described in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 , detailed description will not be provided.

[Generating Data Dependent on Viewing Condition 2]

Next, a conversion LUT 36 is generated by the data generation portion 47 . Since the processing is the same as that described in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 11 , detailed description will not be provided.

[Executing Color Matching]

FIG. 12 is a conceptual view of color matching processing. Reference numeral 31 denotes a conversion LUT generated based on the viewing condition 4 by the data generation portion 41 ; 132 , a LUT generated in the JCH color space by the gamut mapping portion 44 ; 133 , a LUT generated in QMH color space by the gamut mapping portion 45 ; and 36 , a conversion LUT generated based on the viewing condition 2 by the data generation portion 47 .

RGB input color signals are converted by the conversion LUT 31 from the monitor-device-dependent color signals to XYZ signals which are device-independent signals under the viewing condition 4. Next, the XYZ signals are converted by color appearance model forward converters 134 and 135 to perception signals JCH or QMH, based on the viewing condition 4, such as the white point of D 93 illuminant, a luminance level, and the state of ambient light. In a case of relative color matching, JCH space is selected, while in a case of absolute color matching, QMH space is selected.

The color perception signals JCH and QMH are mapped to a color reproduction range of the output device by the LUT 132 and 133 . The color perception signals JCH and QMH, where the gamut mapping has been performed, are converted by color appearance model inverse converters 136 and 137 to XYZ signals which are device-independent signals under the viewing condition 2, based on the viewing condition 2, such as the white point of D 65 illuminant, an illumination level, and the state of ambient light. Then, XYZ signals are converted to output-device-dependent color signals under the viewing condition 2 by the conversion LUT 36 .

The CMYK signals obtained by the above processing are sent to the output device, and an image represented by the color signals is printed. When the printout is viewed under the viewing condition 2, the colors of the printout are perceived as the same as the image viewed under the viewing condition 4.

Fourth Embodiment

In each of the foregoing embodiments, descriptions have been provided for an example in which a color matching module CMM dynamically converts a profile, which has been generated from a colorimetric value employing D 50 and D 65 as a reference, into a profile which is dependent on a viewing condition. Instead, by generating a profile which is fixed to a viewing condition in advance, color matching corresponding to an ambient light can be performed.

Hereinafter described as a fourth embodiment is a method of generating a profile dependent on a viewing condition for selecting a corresponding profile from a plurality of profiles respectively corresponding to viewing conditions.

[Generating Profile Dependent on Viewing Condition in Data Source Side]

Data 11 for a conversion LUT, which is dependent on a viewing condition of the data source side, is generated based on a profile which has been generated from a colorimetric value employing D 50 or D 65 as a reference, by the processing similar to the processing of the data generation portion 41 shown in FIG. 3 for generating data dependent on the viewing condition of the data source side. Since the data 11 is a conversion matrix or a conversion LUT for converting device RGB (or CMYK) values to XYZ (or Lab) values under a viewing condition of the data source side, the data 11 may be stored in the profile without further processing, thereby forming a profile dependent on the viewing condition of the data source side.

[Generating Profile Dependent on Viewing Condition in Data Destination Side]

Data of the LUT 132 and 133 shown in FIG. 12 for performing the gamut mapping process in the JCH and QMH color spaces, which are dependent on a viewing condition of the data destination side, and data 16 for a conversion LUT, which is dependent on a viewing condition of the data destination side, are generated based on the profile which has been generated from a colorimetric value employing D 50 or D 65 as a reference, by the processing similar to the processing of the gamut mapping portions 44 and 45 and data generation portion 47 shown in FIG. 3 .

Since the input/output color space for the data of the LUT 132 is in the JCH color space, the input color space must be XYZ (or Lab) values which base upon a viewing condition of the data destination side. To generate a conversion LUT for converting XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side to CMYK (RGB) values for a device, CMYK values for the device, which correspond to the input XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side, are obtained. In other words, XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side are converted to color perception values JCH under the viewing condition of the data destination side by the color appearance model forward conversion, then compressed in the JCH color space by the data of the LUT 132 . Then, the color perception values JCH are converted back to XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side by the color appearance model inverse conversion, and conversion based on the data of the LUT 134 is performed. By this, CMYK values for a desired device are obtained. A conversion LUT can be generated by sequentially obtaining LUT grid points.

Similarly, since the input/output color space for the data of the LUT 133 is in the QMH color space, the input color space must be XYZ values which base upon a viewing condition of the data destination side. To generate a conversion LUT for converting XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side to CMYK values for a device, CMYK values for the device, which correspond to the input XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side, are obtained. In other words, XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side are converted to color perception values QMH under the viewing condition of the data destination side by the color appearance model forward conversion, then compressed in the QMH color space by the data of the LUT 133 . Then, the color perception values QMH are converted back to XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side by the color appearance model inverse conversion, and conversion based on the data o the LUT 134 is performed. By this, CMYK values for a desired device are obtained. A conversion LUT can be generated by sequentially obtaining LUT grid points.

The LUT 132 is used in relative color matching, while the LUT 133 is used in absolute color matching. By storing these LUTs in a single profile, a profile which is dependent on the viewing condition of the data destination side can be generated. Herein, a plurality of LUTs for relative color matching can be produced and stored by the gamut mapping method (lightness preservation, chroma preservation or the like) in the JCH color space. Similarly, a plurality of LUTs for absolute color matching can be produced and stored by the gamut mapping method (brightness preservation, colorfulness preservation or the like) in the QMH color space.

[Executing Color Matching]

In the color matching using a profile dependent on a viewing condition, the gamut mapping process is included in the profile in the data destination side. Therefore, the gamut mapping in JCH color space or QMH color space does not need to be performed as described in each of the foregoing embodiments.

Color matching using a profile dependent on a viewing condition is described with reference to FIGS. 2 , 13 and 16 .

Input color signals are converted from device-dependent RGB (or CMYK) values to XYZ (or Lab) values under the viewing condition of the data source side, by the profile dependent on the viewing condition of the data source side.

Next, XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data source side are converted to JCH color space or QMH color space by the color appearance model forward conversion, and then converted back to XYZ values under the viewing condition of the data destination side by the color appearance model inverse conversion. Herein, selection of the JCH or QMH color space is determined by the gamut mapping mode. In a case of relative color matching, JCH color space is selected, while in a case of absolute color matching, QMH color space is selected. Furthermore, the conversion from XYZ values to JCH or QMH color space applies the viewing condition of the data source side, such as the white point of an illuminant, an illuminance level or luminance level, and the state of ambient light, stored in the profile in the data source side. In the inverse conversion, the viewing condition of the data destination side, such as the white point of an illuminant, an illuminance level or luminance level, and the state of ambient light, stored in the profile in the data source side, is employed. The converted XYZ (or Lab) values under the viewing condition of the data destination side are converted to the device CMYK (or RGB) values by the profile dependent on the viewing condition of the data destination side.

As has been described above, the color matching processing using a profile dependent on a viewing condition according to the fourth embodiment is equivalent to the color matching processing in the first to third embodiments.

Fifth Embodiment

In each of the foregoing embodiments, a profile dependent on a viewing condition is generated from one type of colorimetric value stored in advance in a profile. However, in order to improve matching precision, it is better that colorimetric data for plural illuminants are stored in the profile, then colorimetric data which is closest to the actual viewing condition is selected from the plural colorimetric data and converted to colorimetric data corresponding to the actual viewing condition, and a profile dependent on the viewing condition is generated.

FIG. 20 is a conceptual view of a profile 191 storing XYZ values of a white point under different illuminants, device-dependent RGB values of a color target, and XYZ values corresponding to the color target under respective illuminants.

The color target serves as, for instance, a color target of IT 8 defined by ANSI in a case of an input device, and serves as, for instance, 9×9×9 RGB color patches in a case of an output device. For instance, reference numeral 192 denotes RGB values of a color target and XYZ values under illuminant A (109.85, 100.0, 35.58); 193 , RGB values of a color target and XYZ values under illuminant D 65 (95.05, 100.0, 108.88); 194 , RGB values of a color target and XYZ values under illuminant D 50 (96.42, 100.0, 82.49); and 195 , RGB values of a color target and XYZ values under illuminant F 2 (99.20, 100.0, 67.40). XYZ values of a color target under different illuminants as mentioned above can be obtained from a spectral distribution of each illuminant and a spectral reflectance of each color target. Therefore, instead of each of the XYZ values, the spectral distribution of each illuminant and spectral reflectance of each color target may be stored in the profile 191 . Herein, if the color target used in each profile is fixed, RGB values of each color target and data for spectral reflectance are common for each illuminant. Therefore, data related to the color target can be shared in each of the illuminants.

FIG. 21 shows a spectral distribution of a standard illuminant, wherein reference numeral 201 denotes a spectral distribution for the illuminant A, and reference numeral 202 denotes a spectral distribution for illuminant D 65 . By measuring a spectral distribution of an illuminant in an actual viewing condition, it is possible to generate a profile dependent on a viewing condition with better precision.

As shown in FIG. 20 , in a case where XYZ values under a plurality of standard illuminants, such as the illuminants A, D 65 , D 50 , and F 2 , are stored in the profile, XYZ values under a standard illuminant which is closest to the actual viewing condition are converted to XYZ values for the viewing condition. To select the XYZ values under an illuminant closest to the viewing condition, a search is performed utilizing the XYZ values of a white point under illuminants, which have been stored in the profile. For instance, assuming that the white point under each illuminant is XwYwZw, the chromaticity (xw, yw) can be obtained by equation (7). $$ xw = Xw Xw + Yw + Zw yw = Yw Xw + Yw + Zw } ( 7 )

Similarly, the chromaticity (x, y) of the white point under the viewing condition is obtained by equation (8). A distance dw from a white point under each illuminant to a white point under a viewing condition is evaluated by, for instance, equation (9). $$ x = X X + Y + Z y = Y X + Y + Z } ( 8 ) dw = ( x - xw ) 2 + ( y - yw ) 2 ( 9 )

From the above calculation result, colorimetric data which is closest to the actual viewing condition is selected, thereby obtaining XYZ values which base upon the viewing condition, with better precision. Herein, the method similar to the above-described embodiments is used to convert XYZ values stored in the profile to XYZ values which base upon a viewing condition. The XYZ values of the colorimetric illuminant reference are converted to the color perception space JCH by the color appearance model based on a colorimetric condition, and then converted back to XYZ values based on a viewing condition different from the colorimetric condition. In a case where the distance dw from a white point under each illuminant to a white point under the viewing condition is zero, the colorimetric data may be used as the XYZ values for the viewing condition. Besides this, the distance may be evaluated by a difference between a color temperature Tw of a white point under each illuminant and a color temperature T of a white point under a viewing condition.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the process of conjecturing a colorimetric value from the colorimetric data for plural illuminants. Herein, step S 211 in FIG. 22 corresponds to step S 44 in FIG. 4 , step S 54 in FIG. 5 , step S 64 in FIG. 6 , step S 74 in FIG. 7 , step S 144 in FIG. 14 , step S 154 in FIG. 15 , and step S 174 in FIG. 17 .

[Caching Profile Data Dependent on Viewing Condition]

As mentioned above, because the processing for generating a profile dependent on a viewing condition is relatively complicated, it is time consuming to perform calculation each time color matching or the like is executed. In the normal usage state, once the viewing conditions of the data source side and the data destination side are set, it is often the case that users do not change the setting. Therefore, by caching a LUT or the like for mutually converting a device-independent color space to a device-dependent color space under a viewing condition, it is possible to improve the processing efficiency.

Since the viewing condition can be set independently for the data source side and data destination side, the LUT for mutually converting a device-independent color space to a device-dependent color space under a viewing condition is cached for each profile. The LUT is cached in each profile or other cache files. A LUT corresponding to the current viewing condition may be cached, or a LUT corresponding to plural viewing conditions may be cached in unit of each viewing condition.

For instance, in a case of using ICC profile, a LUT for a viewing condition, which corresponds to AtoBx Tag, BtoAx Tag, Gamut Tag or the like in each profile, is stored as a private tag.

FIG. 23 shows an example in which a LUT, provided for mutually converting a device-independent color space which bases upon a viewing condition to a device-dependent color space, is stored in the ICC profile. In the profile 221 including the cached LUT, AtoB0 Tag 222 , AtoB1 Tag 223 , AtoB2 Tag 224 , BtoA0 Tag 225 , BtoA1 Tag 226 , BtoA2 Tag 227 , and gamut Tag 228 are stored as a public tag. Herein, the LUT stored as a public tag is provided for mutually converting a device-independent color space employing D 50 reference to a device-dependent color space. Furthermore, the profile 228 includes, as a private tag, LUTs 229 to 2215 which correspond to public tags 222 to 227 , for mutually converting a device-independent color space which bases upon a viewing condition to a device-dependent color space. In the private tag, a viewing condition 2216 at the time of caching is stored independently of the cached LUT.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing caching processing. The processing described hereinafter is an independent process for the data source side and for the data destination side.

First, a viewing condition VC is obtained by user setting or the like. Next, cached LUT's viewing condition VC 0 is obtained from a profile 232 . The viewing condition VC is compared with the viewing condition VC 0 in terms of, for instance, a white point of an illuminant. If a match is found between the viewing conditions, it is determined that the viewing condition is the same as the condition where the last time an LUT is cached. Thus, the cached LUT is used for color matching or the like. On the other hand, if a match is not found between the viewing conditions, a LUT necessary for color matching is generated based on the viewing condition.

The method of generating a LUT which is dependent on a viewing condition is the same as the method described with reference to FIGS. 4 , 6 , 7 , 12 and 13 . For the data source side, the conversion LUT 11 shown in FIG. 12 is cached, while for the data destination side, a LUT combining the LUT 132 and conversion LUT 16 shown in FIG. 12 is cached (i.e., equivalent to the conversion LUT 21 or 26 shown in FIG. 13 ). The viewing condition at the time of LUT generation and the LUT which is dependent on the viewing condition are used for color matching or the like, and then stored as a private tag in the profile.

According to each of the above-described embodiments, the following effects are achieved.

(1) Different viewing conditions (white point of an ambient light, illumination level and so on) can be set for each of the image data source side and the image data destination side. By this, for instance, color reproduction under an environment of a remote place connected by a network can be simulated.

(2) XYZ values employing an ambient light in the image data source side as a reference are converted by a human color appearance model to the JCH color space or QMH color space based on a viewing condition of the image data source side (white point of an ambient light, illumination level and so on), and then converted back to XYZ values employing an ambient light in the image data destination side as a reference, based on a viewing condition of the image data destination side (white point of an ambient light, illumination level and so on). By this, color matching can be performed with independent setting of viewing conditions of the image data source side and image data destination side.

(3) Gamut mapping is performed in the QMH (or JCH) color space, which is the human color perception space. By virtue of this, human color perception characteristics, such as the contour lines of hue, can be reflected upon the gamut mapping, and color matching most appropriate for the ambient light can be performed.

(4) Color matching can be selected from two modes: absolute color matching where the gamut mapping is performed in QMH color space, and relative color matching where the gamut mapping is performed in JCH color space. By virtue of this, it is possible to attempt color matching which is as absolute as possible in the color reproduction range of the output device, or attempt relative color matching which takes the best advantage of the dynamic range of the color reproduction range of the output device, thereby performing color matching most appropriate for the color reproduction range of the output device.

(5) Colorimetric values (XYZ or Lab values) of a color target or color patch are converted to values in the JCH color space by a human color appearance model based on a colorimetric condition (white point of a colorimetric illuminant or illumination level and so on), and then converted back to XYZ (or Lab) values based on a viewing condition (white point of an ambient light and illumination level and so on). By this, XYZ values employing the colorimetric illuminant as a reference are converted to XYZ values employing an ambient light as a reference.

(6) Data indicative of a relation between device-independent data, obtained by colorimetry of a color target under a standard illuminant, and device-dependent data, which is dependent on a device into which the color target data is inputted, is stored in an input profile. In accordance with a viewing condition (white point of an ambient light, illumination level and so on) at the time of viewing an image to be inputted, a conversion matrix or a conversion LUT for converting device-dependent data to device-independent data is dynamically generated. By this, color matching corresponding to the ambient light at the time of viewing the image to be inputted can be performed. Furthermore, the conversion matrix or conversion LUT for converting device-dependent data stored in the input profile to device-independent data (standard illuminant reference) is dynamically updated in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing the image to be inputted (white point of an ambient light, illumination level and so on). By this, color matching corresponding to the ambient light at the time of viewing the image to be inputted can be performed.

(7) A conversion matrix or a conversion LUT for converting device-dependent data stored in a monitor profile to device-independent data (white point reference of a monitor or standard illuminant reference) is dynamically updated in accordance with a viewing condition of a monitor (white point of an ambient light, luminance level and so on). By this, color matching corresponding to an ambient light of a monitor can be performed.

(8) Data indicative of a relation between device-dependent data of a color patch and device-independent data obtained by colorimetry of a printout of the color patch under a standard illuminant, is stored in an output profile. In accordance with a viewing condition (white point of an ambient light, illumination level and so on) at the time of viewing the printout, a conversion LUT for converting device-independent data to device-dependent data is dynamically generated. By this, color matching corresponding to an ambient light at the time of viewing an output original can be performed.

Sixth Embodiment

Described in a sixth embodiment is an example of a Graphic User Interface (GUI) for manually setting a viewing condition (e.g., viewing condition 1 or 2 in FIG. 2 ) for each of the foregoing embodiments.

FIG. 25 shows a GUI 191 for setting a parameter of a viewing condition according to the sixth embodiment.

Reference numeral 192 denotes a text box for inputting a luminance of a viewing subject at the time of viewing an input; 193 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting the type of white point in the viewing subject at the time of viewing an input; 194 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input; 195 , a text box for inputting a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an input; 196 , a text box for inputting a luminance of a viewing subject at the time of viewing an output; 197 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a white point in the viewing subject at the time of viewing an output; 198 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output; and 199 , a text box for inputting a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an output.

Note that the luminance relates to the luminance LA in the CIE CAM97s shown in FIG. 19 ; an illuminant relates to XwYwZw; an ambient light relates to the constant c, factor Nc, lightness contrast factor FLL and factor for degree of adaptation F; and an adaptability relates to the variable D. Although the variable D is obtained by LA and F according to the CIE CAM97s in FIG. 19 , the variable D according to the sixth embodiment is controlled manually.

Normally, about 20% of a white point is inputted as a luminance of a viewing subject. To obtain the type of white point in the viewing subject, XYZ values of a white point in the viewing subject are necessary. However, for a simple explanation, it is assumed herein that the reflectivity of a white point in the medium used is 100%, and therefore, a white point of an illuminant is used herein. Furthermore, although it is better to utilize a white point of the illuminant under the actual viewing condition, it is assumed herein that a standard illuminant type is selected. As the type of standard illuminant, there are illuminants A, C, D 65 , D 50 , D 93 , F 2 , F 8 , and F 11 . Since an image is the viewing subject herein, a relative luminance of the background is assumed to be 20%. With respect to the viewing condition, if a relative luminance of the ambient is equal to or larger than 20%, which has been assumed as the background relative luminance, the subject is determined as “average surround”. If the ambient relative luminance is less than 20%, the subject is determined as “dim”. If the ambient relative luminance is almost 0%, the subject is determined as “dark”. With respect to the chromatic adaptability, the value is adjusted such that 1.0 attains complete adaptation and 0.0 attains no adaptation.

Seventh Embodiment

For setting a parameter of a viewing condition as described in the sixth embodiment, values must be directly inputted. Therefore, handling the GUI is extremely difficult for general users who are not an color expert. In the seventh embodiment, the GUI 191 described in the sixth embodiment is improved for the ease of use.

The characteristic configuration of the seventh embodiment is as follows.

(1) Parameter setting display is changed according to a user's level.

(2) A user can adjust the chromatic adaptability by designating a space between a viewing subject of a data source side and a viewing subject of a data destination side.

(3) A user can adjust the balance of the chromatic adaptability between the viewing subject of a data source side and a viewing subject of a data destination side.

(4) A user can adjust an absolute chromatic adaptability while maintaining the balance of the chromatic adaptability between the viewing subject of a data source side and a viewing subject of a data destination side.

FIG. 26 shows a GUI 201 which enables setting of a user level. FIG. 26 shows the state in which “general user” is set as a user level. In the GUI 201 , user does not need to directly input a parameter, but is able to set all the viewing conditions by making selection or adjusting a slide bar. The contents of selections are expressed in a user-friendly manner.

Referring to FIG. 26 , reference numeral 202 denotes a drop-down combo-box for selecting a user level; 203 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a viewing subject at the time of viewing an input; 204 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a luminance level in the viewing subject at the time of viewing the input; 205 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting the type of white point in the viewing subject at the time of viewing the input; 206 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a viewing condition at the time of viewing the input; 207 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a viewing subject at the time of viewing an output; 208 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a luminance level in the viewing subject at the time of viewing the output; 209 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting the type of white point in the viewing subject at the time of viewing the output; 2010 , a drop-down combo-box for selecting a viewing condition at the time of viewing the output; 2011 , an icon indicative of the viewing subject at the time of viewing an input with the set viewing spacing; and 2012 , an icon indicative of the viewing subject at the time of viewing an output with the set viewing spacing.

The displayed user level is switched, for instance, as shown in FIG. 27 , by designating the drop-down combo-box 202 for selecting a user level. Items of selectable viewing subject include “monitor”, “original document”, “printout” and so forth, and depending on the selected item, items of selection menu and values set according to the item vary. Items of selectable luminance level for the viewing subject include “bright”, “relatively light”, “average”, “relatively dark”, which are expressed in the intuitive manner for general users. Also, items of selectable white point in the viewing subject do not include expressions for expert users such as D 93 or F 2 or the like, but include expressions for general users, such as “bluish white”, “white”, and “yellowish white” for a monitor, and “white fluorescent light”, “neutral white fluorescent light”, “incandescent light”, “clear weather in the open air”, “overcast weather in the open air” for an original document or printout.

For setting a viewing space, the space between the viewing subjects is adjusted by operating the slide bar, for instance, for comparing a monitor and a printout placed next to each other, or comparing the subjects placed apart from each other. The setting concerns with determination of a chromatic adaptability. The viewing subjects are expressed by icons so that a user can intuitively adjust the distance between the icons by using a slide bar.

The chromatic adaptability is defined by the following equation according to CIE CAM97s. $$ complete ⁢   ⁢ adaptation : D = 1.0 $$ no ⁢   ⁢ adaptation : D = 0.0 $$ incomplete ⁢   ⁢ adaptation : D = F - F 1 + 2 · LA 1 / 4 + LA 2 300

Herein, D indicates the chromatic adaptability. F indicates a constant which varies in accordance with a viewing condition, wherein F is 1.0 in the average surround and 0.9 in the dim or dark condition. La indicates a luminance in the viewing subject. The chromatic adaptability D can be set independently for the input side and output side.

In the present embodiment, the chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an input and output is defined such that the chromatic adaptability is changed in accordance with the space (viewing distance) between the viewing subject in the input side and the viewing subject in the output side. Assuming that the complete adaptation is most closely achieved when the viewing distance is infinite, the chromatic adaptability can be defined by the following equation.

$$ Ds0 = Fs - Fs 1 + 2 · LAs 1 / 4 + LAs 2 300 $$ Dd0 = Fd - Fd 1 + 2 · LAd 1 / 4 + LAd 2 300   Ds=Ds 0 · VD+Ds 0 · VD 0 ·(1.0 −VD )

Dd=Dd 0 · VD+Dd 0 · VD 0 ·(1.0 −VD )

Herein, Ds 0 indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an input, which is determined by the luminance level and viewing condition. Fs indicates a constant which varies in accordance with the viewing condition at the time of viewing the input. LAs indicates a luminance in a viewing subject at the time of viewing the input. Dd 0 indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an output, which is determined by the luminance level and viewing condition. Fd indicates a constant which varies in accordance with the viewing condition at the time of viewing the output. LAd indicates a luminance in a viewing subject at the time of viewing the output. Ds indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an input, which is determined by the viewing distance, luminance level, and viewing condition. Dd indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an output, which is determined by the viewing distance, luminance level, and viewing condition. VD indicates the position of a slide bar indicative of a viewing distance, wherein if the viewing distance is zero, VD takes the minimum value 0.0, while if the viewing distance is infinity, VD takes the maximum value 1.0. VD 0 indicates a constant for determining a chromatic adaptability when the viewing distance is zero.

FIG. 27 shows a GUI 211 in a case where the user level is set in the “professional” level. Since the GUI is for expert users, parameters can be inputted directly, and items are expressed by technical expressions.

Herein, reference numeral 2111 denotes a static text for displaying a value of a chromatic adaptability as a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input; 2112 , a static text for displaying a value of a chromatic adaptability as a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output; 2113 , a slide bar for adjusting the balance of a chromatic adaptability between a viewing subject in the input side and a viewing subject in the output side; and 2114 , a slide bar for adjusting an absolute chromatic adaptability while maintaining the balance of the chromatic adaptability between the viewing subject in the input side and the viewing subject in the output side.

The chromatic adaptability in the input side and output side is defined as follows so as to be adjustable by the balance and absolute intensity.

Ds 0 =1.0 −BL

Dd 0 = BL $$ Ds = Ds0 MAX ⁢   ⁢ ( Ds0 , Dd0 ) × VL $$ Dd = Dd0 MAX ⁢   ⁢ ( Ds0 , Dd0 ) × VL

Herein, Ds 0 indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an input, which is determined by the balance adjustment of the chromatic adaptability. Dd 0 indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an output, which is determined by the balance adjustment of the chromatic adaptability. BL indicates the position of a slide bar indicative of a balance, wherein if the balance at the time of viewing an input is 100%, BL takes the minimum value 0.0, and if the balance at the time of viewing an output is 100%, BL takes the maximum value 1.0, and the center is 0.5. Ds indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an input, which is determined by the balance of the chromatic adaptability and absolute intensity adjustment. Dd indicates a chromatic adaptability at the time of viewing an output, which is determined by the balance of the chromatic adaptability and absolute intensity adjustment. VL indicates the position of a slide bar indicative of an absolute intensity, wherein if the intensity is zero, VL takes the minimum value 0.0, and if the intensity is maximum, VL takes the maximum value 1.0. Note that MAX( ) indicates the selection of the maximum value in the parenthesis.

The balance is adjusted such that the complete adaptation is attained when the balance intensity is large. Then, the balance intensity adjusts the entire chromatic adaptability while maintaining the balance. In other words, if the balance is set in the center and the absolute intensity is set to the maximum value, the chromatic adaptability in the input side and output side both attains complete adaptation.

The present invention can be applied to a system constituted by a plurality of devices (e.g., host computer, interface, reader, printer) or to an apparatus comprising a single device (e.g., copying machine, facsimile machine).

Further, the object of the present invention can also be achieved by providing a storage medium storing program codes for performing the aforesaid processes to a computer system or apparatus (e.g., a personal computer), reading the program codes, by a CPU or MPU of the computer system or apparatus, from the storage medium, then executing the program.

In this case, the program codes read from the storage medium realize the functions according to the embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program codes constitutes the invention.

Further, the storage medium, such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile type memory card, and ROM can be used for providing the program codes.

Furthermore, besides aforesaid functions according to the above embodiments are realized by executing the program codes which are read by a computer, the present invention includes a case where an OS (operating system) or the like working on the computer performs a part or the entire processes in accordance with designations of the program codes and realizes functions according to the above embodiments.

Furthermore, the present invention also includes a case where, after the program codes read from the storage medium are written in a function expansion card which is inserted into the computer or in a memory provided in a function expansion unit which is connected to the computer, CPU or the like contained in the function expansion card or unit performs a part or the entire process in accordance with designations of the program codes and realizes functions of the above embodiments.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various changes and modifications can be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, to appraise the public of the scope of the present invention, the following claims are made.

Claims

1. An image processing apparatus for performing color matching process, comprising:a first converter, arranged to convert input image data in a color space dependent on an input device to first data, in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original in an independent color space which is independent of any device; a second converter, arranged to convert the first data to second data in a human color perception space; a third converter, arranged to convert the second data to third data in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original in the independent color space; and a fourth converter, arranged to convert the third data to image data to be outputted to an output device in a color space dependent on the output device.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said first converter uses a conversion characteristic to convert the input image data to the first data, and obtains the converting characteristic by:obtaining relation data, which indicates a relationship between color target data in the independent color space and color target data in the color space dependent on the input device, from a profile corresponding to the input device; converting the color target data in the independent color space included in the relation data to data in the human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the color target data in the independent color space; and converting the data in the human color perception space to data in the independent color space based on the viewing condition at the time of viewing the input original.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said fourth converter uses a conversion characteristic to convert the third data to the image data to be outputted, and obtains the converting characteristic by:obtaining relation data, which indicates a relationship between color target data in the independent color space and color target data in the color space dependent on the output device, from a profile corresponding to the output device; converting the color target data in the independent color space included in the relation data to data in the human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the color target data in the independent color space; and converting the data in the human color perception space to data in the independent color space based on the viewing condition at the time of viewing the output original.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a color space compressor, arranged to perform gamut mapping on the second data, wherein the gamut mapping is the basis of a color gamut of the output device.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the color gamut is obtained by:obtaining conversion data from a profile corresponding to the output device, where the conversion data is used to convert data in the independent color space to data in the color space dependent on the output device; converting data in the independent color space, which is included in the converting data, to data in the human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the data in the independent color space; and converting the data in the human color perception space to data in the independent color space based on the viewing condition at the time of viewing the output original.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein JCH color space which is a color perception space relative to a reference white point of an ambient light, or QMH color space which is an absolute color perception space whose size is changed in accordance with an illumination level, is used as the human color perception space.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the QMH color space is used for performing absolute color matching while the JCH color space is used for performing relative color matching.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a digital still camera, digital video camera, image scanner, or film scanner serves as the input device.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of a monitor, printer, or film recorder serves as the output device.

10. An image processing method for performing color matching process, comprising:a first converting step of converting input image data in a color space dependent on an input device to first data, in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original in an independent color space which is independent of any device; a second converting step of converting the first data to second data in a human color perception space; a third converting step of converting the second data to third data in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original in the independent color space; and a fourth converting step of converting the third data to image data to be outputted to an output device in a color space dependent on the output device.

11. A computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having computer program codes, for an image processing method of performing color matching process, said product comprising:process procedure code for converting input image data in a color space dependent on an input device to first data, in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original in an independent color space which is independent of any device; second conversion process procedure code for converting the first data to second data in a human color perception space; third conversion process procedure code for converting the second data to third data in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original in the independent color space; and fourth conversion process procedure code for converting the third data to image data to be outputted to an output device in a color space dependent on the output device.

12. A profile generating method for generating a profile dependent on a viewing condition, comprising the steps of:obtaining relation data from a profile where the relation data indicates relationship between color target data which has been measured under a standard illuminant and is independent of any device, and color target data dependent on an input device; converting the color target data in the independent color space, which is included in the relation data, to data in a human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the color target data in the independent color space; and converting the data in the human color perception space to data in the independent color space based on the viewing condition so as to generate a converting characteristic to convert data dependent on a device to data which is independent of any device as the profile.

13. A computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having computer program codes, for generating a profile dependent on a viewing condition, said product comprising:obtaining process procedure code for obtaining relation data from a profile where the relation data indicates relationship between color target data which has been measured under a standard illuminant and is independent of any device, and color target data dependent on an input device; first conversion process procedure code for converting the color target data in the independent color space, which is included in the relation data, to data in a human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the color target data in the independent color space; and second conversion process procedure code converting the data in the human color perception space to data in the independent color space based on the viewing condition so as to generate a converting characteristic to convert data dependent on a device to data which is independent of any device as the profile.

14. A computer readable medium recording a converting characteristic in accordance with a viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original for converting data dependent on a device to data which is independent of any device, the converting characteristic generated by:obtaining relation data from a profile where the relation data indicates relationship between color target data which has been measured under a standard illuminant and is independent of any device, and color target data dependent on an input device; converting the color target data in the independent color space, which is included in the relation data, to data in a human color perception space based on a condition for measuring the color target data in the independent color space; and converting the data in the human color perception space to data in the independent color space based on the viewing condition so as to generate a converting characteristic to convert data dependent on a device to data which is independent of any device as the profile.

15. An image processing method of performing color matching process, comprising the steps of:converting input data in an input color space depended on an input device into first data in an independent color space which is independent of any device, based on an input viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original, by using a conversion characteristic; calculating second data in a human color perception space by performing a forward conversion of a color appearance model, which corresponds to the input viewing condition, on the first data; calculating third data in the human color perception space by performing gamut mapping, which corresponds to a color reproduction range of an output device, on the second data; calculating fourth data in the independent color space by performing an inverse conversion of the color appearance model, which corresponds to an output viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original, on the third data; and converting the fourth data into output data in an output color space depended on the output device, wherein generation of the conversion characteristic comprising the steps of: obtaining relational data which indicates relationship between target data of color targets in the independent color space, and read data in the input color space obtained by which the input device reads color of the color targets; converting the target data included in the relational data into converted target data in the human color perception space based on a measuring condition for the target data; and converting the converted target data into data in the independent color space as the conversion characteristic, based on the input viewing condition.

16. An image processing method of performing color matching process, comprising the steps of:converting input data in an input color space depended on an input device into first data, based on an input viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original; calculating second data in a human color perception space by performing a forward conversion of a color appearance model, which correspond to the input viewing condition, on the first data; calculating third data in the human color perception space by performing gamut mapping, which corresponds to a color reproduction range of an output device, on the second data; calculating fourth data in the independent color space by performing an inverse conversion of the color appearance model, which corresponds to an output viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original, on the third data; and converting the fourth data into output data in an output color space depended on the output device by using a conversion characteristic, wherein generation of the conversion characteristic comprising the steps of: obtaining relational data which indicates relationship between first target data of color targets in the independent color space, and second target data in the output color space obtained by which the output device outputs the color targets; converting the first target data included in the relational data into converted target data in the human color perception space based on a measuring condition for the first target data; and converting the converted target data into data in the independent color space as the conversion characteristic, based on the output viewing condition.

17. A computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having computer program codes, for an image processing method of performing color matching process, said product comprising process procedure codes for:converting input data in an input color space depended on an input device into first data in an independent color space which is independent of any device, based on an input viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original, by using a conversion characteristic; calculating second data in a human color perception space by performing a forward conversion of a color appearance model, which corresponds to the input viewing condition, on the first data; calculating third data in the human color perception space by performing gamut mapping, which corresponds to a color reproduction range of an output device, on the second data; calculating fourth data in the independent color space by performing an inverse conversion of the color appearance model, which corresponds to an output viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original, on the third data; and converting the fourth data into output data in an output color space depended on the output device, wherein generation of the conversion characteristic comprising the process procedure codes for: obtaining relational data which indicates relationship between target data of color targets in the independent color space, and read data in the input color space obtained by which the input device reads color of the color targets; converting the target data included in the relational data into converted target data in the human color perception space based on a measuring condition for the target data; and converting the converted target data into data in the independent color space as the conversion characteristic, based on the input viewing condition.

18. A computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having computer program codes, for an image processing method of performing color matching process, said product comprising process procedure codes for:converting input data in an input color space depended on an input device into first data, based on an input viewing condition at the time of viewing an input original; calculating second data in a human color perception space by performing a forward conversion of a color appearance model, which corresponds to the input viewing condition, on the first data; calculating third data in the human color perception space by performing gamut mapping, which corresponds to a color reproduction range of an output device, on the second data; calculating fourth data in the independent color space by performing an inverse conversion of the color appearance model, which corresponds to an output viewing condition at the time of viewing an output original, on the third data; and converting the fourth data into output data in an output color space depended on the output device by using a conversion characteristic, wherein generation of the conversion characteristic comprising process procedure codes for: obtaining relational data which indicates relationship between first target data of color targets in the independent color space, and second target data in the output color space obtained by which the output device outputs the color targets; converting the first target data included in the relational data into converted target data in the human color perception space based on a measuring condition for the first target data; and converting the converted target data into data in the independent color space as the conversion characteristic, based on the output viewing condition.