Gloss Investigations Using Reflected Images of a Target Pattern*

Abstract

A target pattern of concentric rings varying from fine lines to broad bands has been placed in the open face of a desk lamp. This luminous target is useful in the study of the gloss characteristics of the more glossy surfaces. The lines and bands of various sizes in the target provide means for studying surfaces of a wide range of “distinctness-of-reflected-image” gloss. Records may be made of which lines and bands are visible by reflection from different surfaces. Such records serve as permanent gloss values for the different surfaces studied. The dark areas of the target immediately adjacent to the luminous areas provide ideal conditions for the identification of surface “bloom.” The best gloss differentiations are made when the lamp is used in a darkened room so that the luminous pattern is the only source of light illuminating the surfaces inspected. Photographic records of gloss and unusual gloss effects are discussed.