Colorprojection

Colorprojection is a technique in projection technology that uses colored light to reproduce perceived color on a physical surface or within a space. It sits at the intersection of projection mapping, color management, and display engineering, aiming to render specified colors with spatial accuracy across irregular geometries.

Implementation typically involves calibrated light sources, often RGB projectors, or multispectral projectors, along with a digital content pipeline that converts target colors into projector color values. A color profile and gamma curve are applied to compensate for projector gamut and surface reflectance. Color projection relies on alignment between the projector geometry and the target surface (homography) and may use color calibration targets to ensure consistency across devices.

Applications include immersive installations, stage design, architectural lighting, and dynamic signage. In art, color projection can create color-accurate textures on 3D sculptures; in theater it is used to simulate materials or times of day; in museums, to adapt lighting to the viewing context.

Challenges include metamerism (colors changing under different light), ambient light interference, limited projector gamut, and the need for precise calibration of geometry and color; dynamic scenes require real-time processing; data from multiple projectors require color synchronization.