Product Description
WHAT:
The LRV Guru app assists with calculating color contrast ratios. It does the math for you. Scan samples with a tool called NODE+Chroma (info below) or enter manufacturer LRV data. LRV is an acronym that stands for Light Reflectance Value. LRV is a measurement that tells you how much light a color reflects and conversely how much it absorbs. LRV runs on a scale from 0% black to 100% white.
WHO:
Color consultants, architects, graphic designers, sign makers, lighting and interior designers use LRV data in several stages of color design planning. Homeowners should use LRV as a benchmark as they choose colors because LRV indicates how much two colors will contrast or blend as well as how light or dark a color could look and feel once applied to walls.
WHERE:
Careful planning for proper visual ergonomics is paramount in color design for the built environment. Human supportive color palettes are important because the average observer will see hue differences first, chroma differences second, and contrast, lightness differences last. Examples where this is applied are doorways, ramps, steps, signage, and work surfaces.
WHY:
Meeting LRV specifications is critical to maintain the integrity of exterior architectural elements like doors and vinyl siding. In addition, guidelines for LRV contrast ratios exist in many industries and are intended to ensure good visual ergonomics for everyone especially the visually impaired.
HOW:
There is a standard mathematical formula predicated on LRV data points that has been used for decades to calculate the color contrast ratio between two colors. The LRV Guru app performs that calculation for you. Enter known manufacturer LRV data points if you have them or use the NODE+Chroma (info below) to scan swatches of colors.
LRV Guru’s default contrast ratio is set at 70% because it is the most commonly applied guideline. A significant bonus feature of the app is that the contrast ratio can be adjusted by tapping “settings” and positioning the slide bar as desired.
Related Keywords
Related Section Numbers
LRV Guru App - Demo #1 (02:31)
The LRV Guru app can be used two ways. Just enter the LRV values if you know them -- or -- use a NODE+Chroma hand-held colorimeter to measure for LRV.