Two-dimensional transforms for device color calibration

Color device calibration is traditionally performed using one-dimensional per-channel tone-response corrections (TRCs). While one-dimensional TRCs are attractive in view of their low implementation complexity and efficient real-time processing of color images, their use severely restricts the degree of control that can be exercised along various device axes. A typical example is that 1-D TRCs in a printer can be used to either ensure gray balance along the C = M = Y axis or to provide a linear response in ΔE units along each of the individual (C, M and Y) axis but not both. This paper proposes a novel two-dimensional calibration architecture for color device calibration that enables significantly more control over the device color gamut with a modest increase in implementation cost. Results show significant improvement in calibration accuracy and stability when compared to traditional 1-D calibration.