Outfit Colour Compatibility Determination Using Image Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods struggle to provide automatic and immediate recommendations for cosmetic product colors that are aesthetically compatible with a user's outfit, especially for non-qualified consumers, without prior consultation.

Innovation Solution

A computational method using image processing and machine-learning models to segment, determine, and generate compatible colors based on outfit images, employing databases or computational rules, and tailored to user preferences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If automatic techniques are used to determine compatible colours, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to the subjective nature of colour compatibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of colour recommendationVSAvoidaccuracy of colour compatibility assessment
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of image capture devices, processing units, and databases that mediate between the user's outfit and the colour recommendations. This intermediary automatically extracts colour information from images, processes it through computational algorithms, and retrieves pre-determined compatible colours from databases, thereby eliminating the need for direct human assessment while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining and storing databases of compatible colour combinations before they are needed. The system captures images of outfits, extracts colour information, and automatically queries pre-computed databases for compatible colours, eliminating the need for real-time subjective assessment and enabling immediate recommendations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If professional make-up artists provide colour recommendations, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to appointment scheduling and consultation requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality of colour compatibility adviceVSAvoidtime for consultation and appointment scheduling
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by enabling users to capture images of their own outfits using mobile devices, automatically process these images through computational algorithms, and receive personalised colour recommendations without requiring professional make-up artists. The system performs colour extraction, compatibility assessment, and recommendation generation autonomously, placing the service directly in the user's hands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of human make-up artist consultation with an automated computational system. Image capture devices, processing units, and databases substitute for human eyes, brains, and communication channels, transforming a service requiring human interaction into an automated digital process that delivers immediate results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Loss of time

If image processing and machine-learning models are used to automatically determine compatible colours, then loss of time is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of colour determinationVSAvoidcomplexity of computational system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the colour determination process into distinct functional modules: image capture, colour extraction, database querying, and recommendation generation. Each module performs a specific task independently, allowing the complex overall process to be managed through modular components that can be developed, tested, and maintained separately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a multi-functional computational system that can handle various types of images (different lighting conditions, angles, outfits), process multiple colour schemes, and provide recommendations for different cosmetic products. The same core infrastructure serves multiple purposes, reducing the need for separate specialized systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4272165B1Method for determining at least one colour compatible with an outfit of a user
Publication Date: 2025.12.31 LOREAL SA
  • EP4272165B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4272165B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The method for determining at least one colour compatible with an outfit of a user, comprises: - a step (IMP) of importing at least one photographic image (IΜ) containing a representation of at least one portion of the outfit of the user; - a step (SEG) of segmenting said at least one image (IM), to identify at least one region of interest (S1, S2, S3) in the outfit; - a step (DET) of determining the colour of said at least one region of interest (S1, S2, S3); and - a step (GEN) of generating said at least one colour compatible with the outfit of the user, on the basis of the determined colour of said region of interest (S1, S2, S3) depending on a database (PAL1-PAL4) of compatible colours or on a computational rule (RGL, 11-71) for obtaining compatible colours.