Human Perception and Fabric Streakiness

Streakiness and barré have been problems for the textile industry for years. It is interesting that streakiness can be a problem in fabrics when it is barely detectable by instruments. This paper uses theory developed to explain the way humans see, to understand the origin of the fabric streakiness problem as a perception phenomenon. It then uses this understanding to suggest and evaluate options for improving, (i.e., reducing) the appearance of streakiness in real fabrics. Testing of the options suggested is done on simulated fabrics created under precisely controlled conditions on a high- quality color printer.