International Commission on Illumination

CIExy1931

3D Chromaticity Diagram LUV

International Commission on Illumination (CIE) is the international authority on light, illumination, color, and color spaces. It was established in 1913 and is recognized for its standardized color models, which are used in various industries including photography, television, and printing. The CIE plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining standards that ensure consistency and accuracy in the use of light and color worldwide.

History

The CIE was founded with the aim of addressing the need for international cooperation and standardization in the realm of illumination. Since its inception, it has been at the forefront of advancing knowledge and setting standards in the science and art of light and lighting. The commission's work has evolved over the years to include a wide range of topics related to light and lighting, color measurement, and color standards.

Structure

The organization is made up of national committees from its member countries. Each member country has its own committee that represents its interests within the CIE. The commission's work is carried out through a number of Technical Committees and Working Groups, each focusing on specific areas of light and lighting. These groups are responsible for conducting research, developing standards, and publishing technical reports and recommendations.

Key Contributions

One of the most significant contributions of the CIE is the development of the CIE Standard Illuminants, which define the characteristics of light sources for purposes of colorimetry. The commission has also developed the CIE XYZ color space, which is a cornerstone in the field of color science and provides a mathematical model for color representation. Additionally, the CIE has been instrumental in the development of standards for color rendering index (CRI), photometry, and luminance.

Publications and Standards

The CIE publishes a wide range of documents, including standards, technical reports, and recommendations. These publications cover various aspects of lighting and color science and are essential resources for professionals in related fields. The commission's standards are internationally recognized and are often adopted by other standards organizations and industries.

Impact and Relevance

The work of the CIE is critical for a variety of applications, including lighting design, color printing, digital imaging, and visual ergonomics. By providing a solid foundation for the understanding and application of light and color, the CIE helps ensure that products and environments can be designed to meet the needs of users worldwide. The commission's efforts in standardization also facilitate international trade and cooperation in industries related to lighting and color.

See Also

• Colorimetry
• Photometry (optics)
• Color space
• Luminance
• Color rendering index