Basics of Munsell value conversion, how to look it up, and its relationship to JIS standards

Here."The basics of Munsell value conversion, how to look it up, and how it relates to JIS standards."I am making a note about the

When designing, problems arise such as "I received a Munsell value color specification, but I don't know what it means," or "I want to know how to find out if the color is different from the JIS standard.　　In design, manufacturing, and design, accurate color communication is required,In particular, Munsell values are widely used as color standards　However, many people are confused about its meaning, actual usage, and relationship to JIS standards.

Even if you refer to color samples and lists at hand, if you do not know how to convert them or how to find out the specifics, you will not be able to proceed with your work.　This article explains the basics of how to avoid mistakes in specifying colors for those who handle Munsell values in their work.　In most cases in mechanical design, Munsell value instructions are basically specified by the end user, but it is a good idea to read this article to deepen your understanding of the following points.

• Basic Meaning and Reading of Munsell Values
• Relationship of Munsell values to Nichi-Nenko and JIS standards
• Specific examples of colors used in practice, such as safety and identification colors
• Points to note when specifying colors and conversions

Basic Relationship between Munsell Values and JIS Standards

As a quick note, we will start with the basics of Munsell values as color standards, their relationship to the Nichinoko (Japan Paint Manufacturers Association) color chart widely used in the Japanese industrial field, and how to convert colors between the two.　　First, let's learn the basics of how to treat color as an objective index.

What is the Munsell value represented by the three attributes of color?

What is Munsell value?A system devised by Albert Munsell, an American art teacher, for expressing color in objective numerical terms.　It is　It is designed so that everyone can recognize "color" information, which tends to rely on the senses, in the same way,It is used in industrial products and design all over the world.

The foundation of this system is theThree elements known as the "three attributes of color　It is.

Three attributes of color: hue, lightness, and saturation

• Hue: Hue It indicates the different "shades" of red, yellow, green, blue, and purple. They are represented by alphabetic symbols and consist of R (red), Y (yellow), G (green), B (blue), P (purple) and their intermediate colors (YR, GY, etc.).
• Lightness (Value) Indicates the degree of brightness of a color. The brightest white is 10 and the darkest black is 0. The higher the number, the brighter the color.
• Chroma: Chroma Indicates the degree of vividness of a color. The achromatic colors (white, black, and gray) at the center of the same axis as brightness are set to 0. The further away from the center, the greater the value, and the more vivid the color.

In short,Munsell values combine these three elements in a system that precisely defines a specific color with the symbol "H V/C" (hue lightness/saturation).　It is.　This allows for vague expressions such as "bright red" to be used instead,It can convey color with specific numerical values.

How to read the basic Munsell value

Munsell values are written in the format "H V/C," each representing hue (Hue), lightness (Value), and saturation (Chroma).　Understanding this reading is the first step in working with Munsell values.

For example, suppose we have a Munsell value of "5R 4/14". This would read as follows

• 5R (hue): The first "5R" ishueindicates the tint stage.　R stands for red (Red), and the number in front of it indicates the stage of the hue.　In this case, it indicates a "pure red" hue.
• 4/ (lightness): The "4" before the slash isbrightnessis.　It means that the brightness is at "4" on a scale from 0 (black) to 10 (white). It is a relatively dark color.
• /14 (saturation): The "14" after the slash ischromaThe higher the number, the more vivid the color.　The higher the number, the more vivid the color. In this case, the saturation is "14," which is very high and vivid.

Thus, "5R 4/14" can be read specifically as "a pure red hue, somewhat dark and very bright red". (I am not good at reading lol) Once you remember this rule, you can roughly imagine what color it is when you see any Munsell value.

How to check Munsell values and use color swatches

The most common way to find out Munsell values is to use a "color swatch book".　It is.　　These are published by JIS (Japan Industrial Standards) and Nichinrikoh (Japan Paint Manufacturers Association), and contain Munsell values corresponding to specific color chart numbers.

Types of color sample books

• JIS standard color chart This color sample book covers the colors specified by JIS.　It contains accurate Munsell values and is referred to when strict color specifications are required. Glossy and matte editions are available, and are used according to the application.
• Nichinko standard colors for paints: (1) It is a compilation of standard colors widely used in the paint industry. It is revised every few years and used in a wide range of fields such as architecture, equipment, and machinery. The color chart numbers are accompanied by Munsell values as reference values.

One thing to keep in mind when using these color swatch books is the environment in which they are observed.　If colors are not viewed and compared under a standard light source close to natural light, the appearance of colors will change, making accurate judgment difficult.　Also,In recent years, apps have appeared that measure color with a smartphone camera and display approximate Munsell values, but they should be considered only as a reference　I am sure you will.

In Business.If accuracy is required, it is always important to perform a final check with a physical color swatch book.

Japan Paint Manufacturers Association (JPCA) and Munsell Values

The Japan Paint Manufacturers Association, commonly known as "NITTO KOH", is an association of Japanese paint manufacturers.　The NITTO KOGYO publishesStandard Colors for Paint" color swatch book　is widely used as a standard for specifying and confirming colors in various fields where paints are used, including architecture, structures, equipment, and landscape colors.

Nichinko's color sample books have unique color chart numbers (e.g., "FN-95", "E25-70B", etc.), and each color chart has a Munsell value as a reference value.　This makes it possible to determine the Munsell value of the color specified by the Nichinichi Nichinko color chart number.

However, there are some things to keep in mind,Nichinko's color sample books are revised periodically.　The colors included in the book may also change as a result of these changes.　Therefore, if you continue to use an older version of a color swatch book, your perception of the colors may be out of sync with the current standard colors.

When specifying colors, it is essential to clearly communicate which year's edition of the color sample book the colors are based on in order to prevent any discrepancies in perception.

Munsell value conversion to Nichinan approximation

Finding a color specified by Munsell values in the Nichi-Nuri color sample book, or vice versa, is a frequent task in practice. In many cases, Munsell values are listed alongside Nichinko's color slips, making it relatively easy to refer to them.

However,Colors that exactly match the specified Munsell values are not always included in the Nichinenko color sample book.　In such cases, it is necessary to search for the closest color, or "approximation.

There are several caveats to this conversion process. First, it is important to understand that Munsell values are an ideal color system, whereas Nichia colors are selected from the range of colors that can actually be reproduced in paints, and thus there is a difference in the color gamut to begin with. In particular, colors with high saturation and vividness are difficult to reproduce in paints, and corresponding colors may not be found.

Second, although "closest color" should be evaluated based on the numerical standard of color difference (ΔE), it is not uncommon for the judgment to be made visually. In such cases, efforts must be made to enhance the objectivity of the judgment, for example, by setting up the light source conditions and having multiple persons in charge check the results. In light of the above, it is important to recognize that conversion is only a process of searching for an "approximate value" and does not guarantee a perfect match, which is the key to avoiding problems later on.

basicallyIn mechanical design, it is usual to proceed with the design based on the specifications given by the client (end user) (the specifications may read with a unique color code), but if there are any questionable areas such as coloring on cutting parts or color differences in partial safety areas or dangerous areas, it is advisable to reconcile them beforehand. If you have any questions about coloring of cutting parts or color differences in safe or dangerous areas, it would be desirable to discuss them in advance.

Munsell values and JIS specified colors for practical use

From here, we will focus on more practical aspects and explain the relationship between various color specifications and Munsell values defined in JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards).Colors for safety or to identify the type of product　We will look at such things as

Munsell values that can be checked with JIS color swatches

JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) uses the Munsell color system as an objective method of color representation.Specifically, in "JIS Z 8721 (Color Indication Methods - Indication by Three Attributes)," Munsell values are specified as the basis for color indication, and colors of domestic industrial products are controlled by a common scale.　It is a

The "JIS Standard Color Chart" was created in accordance with this standard.　This is a physical color chart that reproduces the colors defined by JIS, and contains extremely accurate Munsell values.

Reliable tool used by designers and quality control personnel as a color standard　It is positioned as a

While the Munsell values listed in the NICHINIKO color sample book are "reference values," the Munsell values in the JIS standard color chart have the character of "specified values.　Therefore, when JIS-compliant colors are required in contracts or specifications, the JIS standard color chart must be used to confirm the colors.　The use of this color chart will prevent any discrepancy in color recognition between the ordering party and the contractor, thereby assuring the quality of the product.

List of JIS Safety Colors and Regulations

In factories, construction sites, and public facilities, "safety colors" are used to instantly communicate dangerous areas and safe conditions to people.　These colors are strictly defined by JIS Z 9101 (Safety Colors and Safety Signs) in terms of their applications and Munsell values.

These colors cannot be changed without permission because they are standardized so that everyone can understand the meaning of the colors without misunderstanding.　Below are typical safety colors, their meanings, and Munsell values.

These colors are selected not only to stand out, but also to be difficult to misidentify in poorly lit areas and in consideration of the color vision characteristics of various people. It is essential to always refer to this JIS standard when designating colors related to safety.

List of JIS identification colors for piping, etc.

In large factories and plants, numerous pipes pass through each other in complex ways. Misidentification of what is flowing in which piping can lead to serious accidents. To prevent this, "identification colors" were defined by JIS to identify the type of material in the piping by color.

This provision was previously defined in "JIS Z 9102," but this standard has been discontinued and the content has now been taken over by "JIS Z 9104 (Safety labeling systems for piping systems and storage tanks).However, as a matter of convention, the color designations of the former JIS Z 9102 are still widely used in the field. Below are the major identification colors specified in the former regulations.

These colors are defined according to the hazards and properties of the fluid. When painting or maintaining piping, it is fundamental to safety management to check the latest JIS standards as well as to comply with site conventions and regulations.

Example of Munsell value seen in machine tool color

In the past, recommended colors for machine tools were also defined by JIS.　The purpose was to improve work efficiency and safety by reducing operator eye fatigue and making it easier to recognize workpieces and hazardous areas.　The first time I saw this, I was in the middle of a meeting with a friend of mine.

A typical standard is JIS B 6013, where colors such as "7.5BG 4/2" (light blue-green) were recommended for machine bodies.　This color was chosen because it softens the reflection of metal luster and oil, and prevents eye fatigue after long hours of work.　It is.

However, this JIS B 6013 was discontinued in 1986. Today, no specific JIS standard mandates the color of machine tools.Many manufacturers now use their own colors for visibility, design, and their own brand image.

Nevertheless, due to long-standing practice, colors similar to this "7.5BG 4/2" are still used in many machines.If there is a need to match colors, such as in repair painting of older machines, this Munsell value may be helpful.

List of typical Munsell values such as red and white

We have looked at JIS safety and identification colors, but there are many other colors around us that can be used as standards. Here are some typical Munsell values for red and white, which are commonly referred to.

Munsell value of red

The most common "red" in the JIS standard is "7.5R 4/14," which is a safety red. This is a highly saturated, vivid red. It is said that the color of mailboxes and other items are also made with reference to this Munsell value.

Munsell value of white

White" is achromatic and has no saturation, so its Munsell value is represented by "N." The number after "N" indicates lightness; N10 is the ideal white, but it is physically difficult to reproduce. The two commonly used "whites" are as follows

• N9.5: This is the current JIS standard white. It is a very bright white, close to pure white.
• N9: Once considered the standard white, this color is slightly grayish compared to N9.5. However, the color is still widely used, as it is still recognized as "white" enough in the general sense.

For example, products labeled "white" in building materials or home appliances may actually be N9.5, N9, or some other off-white color. If you want to confirm the exact color, it is still important to check with a color sample book.

Summary: Munsell values and JIS important in practice

Let me summarize some of the particularly important points in this issue.

• Munsell values are a universal system that quantifies colors by the three attributes of hue, lightness, and saturation.
• H V/C (hue/lightness/saturation)
• Understanding how to read will give you a concrete understanding of color characteristics.
• To investigate the Munsell valueJIS standard color table　and ... andNichinko Color Sample Book　is used
• Observation under a standard light source is essential for accurate color judgment.
• Nichinko is a standard color in the paint industry, with Munsell values listed alongside for reference.
• Conversion from Munsell values to NICHIA values is a process of searching for approximate values.
• JIS uses the Munsell color system as the color display method.
• JIS safety colors are strictly defined to instantly convey danger and safety
• Red for fire extinguishers and green for emergency exits are typical examples of JIS safety colors.
• Piping identification colors are specified by JIS to prevent accidents.
• The former JIS Z 9102 for piping identification has been abolished and succeeded by JIS Z 9104.
• Machine tool colors were once recommended by JIS, but are now obsolete
• It is important that color designations clearly communicate the name of the standard and the year edition of the color sample book.
• Ultimately, visual confirmation with actual products and color swatches is the key to avoiding problems.

Finally.

Finally, if there is anything missing from this article, I will put up a website that I can recommend for more in-depth and accurate information.

1. find out about JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards)

This is the best official site for checking the original and latest information on JIS standards.

• Site Name:. Japan Industrial Standards Committee (JISC)
• URL:. https://www.jisc.go.jp/
• Overview: (in Japanese only) It is a council of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, which is responsible for all aspects of industrial standardization in Japan. On this site, you can search JIS standards by number or keyword, and check the outline of standards and information on enactment, revision, and abolition free of charge.Standards such as "JIS Z 9101" mentioned in the article can also be searched.　It is.

2. research color swatches and paints from Nichinoko (Japan Paint Manufacturers Association)

This is useful if you want to know official information about paint colors and NICHINIKO's color sample books.

• Site Name:. Japan Paint Manufacturers Association (JPMA)
• URL:. https://www.toryo.or.jp/
• Overview: (in Japanese only) The article, "Standard colors for paints　The organization publishes the "Color Standards Book". On the site, you can get the latest information on color swatch books, statistics on paints, and technical information.

3. deepen expertise in Munsell color system and color

Suitable for students who wish to learn more professionally about color representation and color science.

• Site Name:. Japan Color Research Institute (JCRI)
• URL:. https://www.jcri.jp/
• Overview: (in Japanese only) It is a specialized organization that conducts research and standardization related to color. It provides basic knowledge of colors, including the Munsell color system, and information on the "standard color chart" defined by JIS.

That's it.