Coating Matching System Using Digital Color Deviation Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for matching vehicle repair coatings are inefficient and subjective, often requiring numerous iterations and expert knowledge to achieve a visually acceptable match due to variations in manufacturing and application techniques, leading to time-consuming and error-prone processes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that considers subjectively perceived visual deviations between a sample coating and a reference coating, using digital representations and user inputs to determine an adjusted sample coating that minimizes perceived differences, thereby reducing the need for iterative adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional visual color matching methods are used, then expert knowledge and manual evaluation are required to achieve acceptable matches, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual evaluation and mechanical colorimetric measurement with an automated image processing system using digital cameras and computer algorithms. The system captures images of reference and sample coatings, converts them to standardized color spaces (CIELAB, CIE LCh), and automatically calculates color differences, eliminating the need for expert visual assessment while significantly reducing time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of the reference coating through high-resolution imaging. Instead of physically comparing paint chips or relying on human memory of color standards, the system generates a digital representation of the reference coating that can be repeatedly analyzed and compared against sample coatings, enabling precise and consistent evaluation without time loss.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple refinish matching coating compositions are developed for each OEM coating, then better matching coverage is achieved, but the complexity of selecting the correct match increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback loop where the image processing system continuously evaluates sample coatings against the reference, provides quantitative color difference metrics, and guides the selection process. This feedback mechanism automatically narrows down the pool of potential matches, reducing selection complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage through systematic evaluation of multiple candidates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the complex multidimensional problem of coating match selection into simplified parameter-based comparison by converting images to standardized color spaces and using quantitative color difference formulas (ΔE, ΔL, Δa, Δb). This parameter transformation approach maintains adaptability to handle various coating types while simplifying the selection process through objective numerical criteria.
3Measurement precision
If color values are measured using colorimeters or spectrophotometers and compared to database values, then preliminary matching formulas can be located, but the method does not account for subjectively perceived visual differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces digital imaging as an intermediary between traditional colorimetric measurement and human visual perception. The system uses standardized color spaces (CIELAB, CIE LCh) that are designed to approximate human color perception, bridging the gap between instrumental measurement and subjective visual assessment. This intermediary approach maintains measurement precision while improving reliability by accounting for how humans actually perceive color differences.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are a method for determining at least one adjusted sample coating to match the appearance of a reference coating, and respective systems, apparatuses, or computer elements. Further disclosed herein are methods and respective systems, apparatuses, or computer elements for determining at least one adjusted sample coating to match the appearance of a reference coating by considering visual deviations in appearance between a sample coating and an associated reference coating which are subjectively perceived by a human observer.