Chromafile: a method for simulating paint-colour on the computer

This joint research project with Dr Ferdy Carabott investigated the relation of computer colour-mixing processes with those of pigments and dyes. Predicated on the divergence between analogue and virtual colour, our research questioned why computers cannot match the output of dying, painting and printing.

In answering this question, we also developed a method for reconfiguring computer colour (RGB system) to simulate paint mixing (RYB system): Chromafile. This program can be used in Photoshop and other imaging systems, and is the first palette to simulate paint colour. It is an addition to the range of established computer colour palettes (RGB, Pantone etc.)
The research involves colour science, colour measurement and a systematic study of pigment mixing to achieve the method for colour conversion. I was responsible for the colour researches (pigments, paints, dyes etc.) and shared the conceptual direction of the project; Dr. Ferdy Carabott was responsible for the computing and colour measurement.

We jointly share the Patent. The method can be applied to any opaque pigment colour and hence has a broad application and commercial potential.
The paint colour palette enables the transfer of knowledge about printed colour to computer-aided design. It is the key to a more extensive area of research between virtual and material colour.
The Chromafile colour system was subsequently used to develop a pioneering visual and practice based art and design learning program, The Virtual Colour Course which features a unique mixing tool as a new and original way of using colour on the computer, This more closely resembles the experience of paint-mixing than the existing ways of accessing RGB (computer) colour via the established imaging programs (Photoshop, Illustrator). The method for printing established colour information and reference, in addition to the individual users own work, is a new feature of this software.