The perceived appearance of an object does not only relate to physical measurable parameters, but also involves the physiological response of the human visual system, as well as the psychological aspects of human learning, culture and tradition. The various human factors involved make exact measurement and quantification of appearance a very complicated task.
However, some visual attributes, such as e.g. colour, gloss, translucency and texture, have been successfully correlated to the optical properties of materials, which are physical parameters that can be measured and quantified.
How can SINTEF contribute?
At SINTEF we have competence on the optical properties of materials, including how these properties can be measured, modelled or manipulated. Our competence in materials optics is extended to include visual attributes that can be derived from optical properties, such as e.g. colour and gloss.
The link between optical properties and visual attributes is relevant for many industrial processes and materials, one example being extruded aluminium surfaces. Here, SINTEF has investigated the interplay between surface topography, light scattering characteristics, and the perceived streakiness of different surfaces. The results can be used to understand how certain changes in the surface topography will influence the light scattering characteristics of the surface and thereby also the perceived streakiness.
For some products there is a need to make a compromise between the optical properties desired for a specific function, and the visual properties desired for aesthetic purposes. One example of such a product is a coloured PV module. Coloured PV modules may be very attractive for integration into building facades (BIPV) or vehicles (VIPV), but the introduction of colour results in reduced electricity production. SINTEF has investigated how the functional and visual desires of coloured PV modules can be balanced in the best possible way.