Color Palette Management via Incremental Mixing Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing color palette management systems in graphical user interfaces are inadequate for precise color selection and blending, as they rely on RGB and HSV models that do not allow for intuitive color mixing, making it difficult for users to create harmonious color palettes, especially with touch-based interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable users to mix colors by receiving inputs for a source and target color, with incremental mixing indicators, allowing for the definition and storage of intermediate colors, and displaying these on the interface, using a color-mixer module and history module to facilitate reversible color mixing and palette management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional RGB/HSV color models with color wheels and sliders are used, then color selection is available, but precise color mixing and intuitive color blending are not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the color selection interface from traditional HSV parameters (hue wheel, saturation slider, value slider) to a dual-color-well interface where users directly manipulate source and target colors. This parameter transformation enables intuitive color blending by allowing users to visually compare and adjust color differences, achieving both precision and intuitiveness simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary color difference indicator that visually represents the relationship between source and target colors. This intermediary element helps users understand color relationships and make precise adjustments by showing the magnitude and direction of color differences, bridging the gap between intuitive selection and precise control.
2Ease of operation
If preset color wells are provided, then color selection is simplified, but exploration of color relationships and creation of new colors through blending is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the color palette dynamic by allowing users to freely select any color as source or target, rather than being constrained to preset colors. The system dynamically generates intermediate colors based on user adjustments, enabling both simple selection and extensive exploration of color relationships. Users can iteratively refine colors by switching between source and target roles, creating a versatile and adaptive color creation process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If color mixing is allowed, then harmonious palettes can be created, but the process becomes complex and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the color mixing process into distinct, manageable components: source color well, target color well, and color difference indicator. Each component has a specific function, making the overall process simpler to understand and control. Users can independently adjust source or target colors without being overwhelmed by multiple simultaneous controls, reducing perceived complexity while maintaining blending capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided that comprises receiving, from a user device, a first input indicating a first color, from a color palette, as a source color. The method further comprises receiving, from the user device, a second input indicating a second color from the color palette as a target color. The method also comprises receiving, from the user device, a plurality of user movement indicators representing an incremental mixing of the target color into the source color. The method further comprises defining a plurality of colors based on the first input, the second input and the plurality of user movement indicators. The method also comprises storing, data associated with each color from the plurality of colors. The method further comprises sending, for each color from the plurality of colors, a signal to display a representation of that color on the user interface associated with the user device.