Color Matching Sample Databases Using Spatial Micro-Color Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for matching the color and appearance of target coatings are cumbersome and expensive, as they rely on spectrophotometers or fandecks, which are not readily available or practical for economy markets.
Innovation Solution
A sample database system that includes spatial micro-color analysis and machine learning to match target coatings, using a database with sample coating formulas and image features, allowing for efficient matching through electronic imaging and feature extraction processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If spectrophotometers are used to measure color and appearance attributes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital image copies (photographs) of coating samples instead of physical spectrophotometer measurements. Image processing algorithms extract color and appearance attributes from these digital copies, providing a cheaper alternative that maintains adequate measurement precision for color matching applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical measurement system (spectrophotometer) with an electronic imaging system (camera or smartphone). Image processing and computer vision algorithms substitute for the physical measurement process, reducing device complexity while maintaining functional capability for color attribute extraction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fandecks with numerous sample coating layers are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital database that serves multiple functions: storing coating formulas, storing reference images, extracting color attributes, and performing matching operations. This single digital system replaces the need for separate physical fandecks for different coating types, providing universal adaptability across all coating formulas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional physical fandeck pages to a multi-dimensional digital database structure. The database organizes coating formulas and images in structured tables with multiple attributes, allowing efficient searching and matching across all dimensions of coating variation without physical bulk.
3Ease of operation
If visual comparison with fandecks is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback loop where the system objectively compares target coating images with reference coating images using image processing algorithms. The computer calculates color differences and automatically identifies the best match, providing precise, repeatable results without human visual interpretation variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to perform color matching automatically without requiring expert operator judgment. The image processing algorithms and database matching operations execute self-service color analysis, eliminating the need for trained technicians to visually compare fandeck samples while maintaining or improving precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If numerous alternate coating formulas are maintained, then adaptability is improved, but loss of information and database complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coating formula database into structured records with distinct fields for each attribute (pigment composition, binder type, solvent content, color properties, etc.). This segmentation allows efficient storage, retrieval, and comparison of numerous alternate formulas without information loss, as each formula's complete specification is maintained in organized data fields.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for a sample database are provided, where the sample database is for matching a target coating. In one embodiment, the system comprises a sample database stored on a storage device. The sample database includes a sample coating formula and a sample image feature with at least one sample coating formula linked to at least one sample image feature. At least one sample image feature includes a spatial micro-color analysis that includes a value determined by a sample pixel feature difference between at least two sample pixels.