COMPUTER/HUMAN INTERFACE FOR PERFORMING DATA TRANSFORMATIONS BY MANIPULATING GRAPHICAL OBJECTS ON A VIDEO DISPLAY

摘要

The apparatus of the invention generates an array of modified data values related to an array of input data values in response to commands from a user. The invention is particularly suited for color image processing. The apparatus includes storage means for storing at least one data transform definition and data processing means for identifying at least one of the transform definitions in response to a user's selection of at least one data transformation and for applying the identified transform definitions to the array of input data values. A user interface is provided. The interface comprises an input device and a display. The display displays a graphical representation of the user instructions and the transform definitions. The user selects and moves on the display the graphical representation of at least one of the transform definitions. A signal processor identifies the selected at least one of the transform definitions and applies the selected transform definitions to the array of input data values to arrive at modified values. Thus, the tonal properties of a picture can be changed. The invention further comprises means for generating a single composite transform definition, such that application of the single composite transform definition to the input data values generates the same output data values as would the individual serial application of a selected at least two transform definitions.