Colour Vision Simulation

Creation of a colour palette that includes uncommon vision types

Can you spot the green crayon?

Colour blindness (colour vision deficiency, or CVD) affects approximately 1 in 12 men (8%) and 1 in 200 women – about 4.5% of the entire population. Most colour blind people are unable to fully ‘see’ red, green or blue light – which means they perceive the entire spectrum differently.

These common CVD types are:

• Protanopia (P) – unable to perceive any 'red' light
• Deuteranopia (D) – unable to perceive 'green' light
• Tritanopia (T) – unable to perceive 'blue' light

RGB & YCM

Let’s simulate how RGB and YCM are perceived. Protanope and Deuteranope users have a harder time distinguishing red from green. Which other differences in perception can you spot?

Increments

For a data visualisation, I am simulating a colour palette with five colours. I am trying out two step increments for hue: 60 degree and 72 degree.

Neither of the above palettes includes all types well. A few colours can be confused.

Adjustments

To improve the palette, I am shifting the starting angle in the colour wheel by minus 8° – and it helps greatly! As a second step, I am shifting the green towards blue – even better!

Now each colour can be distinguished, recognised, and matched.

Application

This colour palette is suitable for a dark theme.