Virtual Paint Color Preview Using Luminosity Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting paint colors are time-consuming and limited, as they do not accurately account for how different colors will appear under various lighting conditions, especially shadows and direct light, when using physical paint samples.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based method for virtually painting an image, which involves generating a luminosity map from the image, setting a reference luminosity value based on a selected pixel, calculating luminosity differences, and overlaying new colors to simulate how lighting affects the chosen colors, allowing users to preview how different colors will appear on a surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical color cards are used for color selection, then consumers can view actual paint colors, but the process becomes time-consuming and cannot show how entire surfaces will appear under different lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the physical surface through photographing, and then applies virtual paint colors to this digital replica. This allows consumers to view how entire surfaces will appear with different colors without physically painting test swatches, significantly reducing time while maintaining color accuracy through the luminosity mapping process
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary color visualization by generating a luminosity map from the photographed surface and pre-calculating how different paint colors will appear under the specific lighting conditions of the location. This allows consumers to make informed decisions before purchasing paint, eliminating the need for time-consuming in-store color card comparisons
2Reliability
If physical paint samples are used, then consumers can see actual colors, but they cannot accurately predict how colors will appear under different lighting conditions such as shadows and direct light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by generating a luminosity map that captures the specific lighting characteristics of different regions in the photographed surface. Each pixel's luminosity value reflects the actual lighting conditions at that location, allowing the virtual paint application to accurately show how colors will appear in shadows, direct light, and intermediate areas specific to that location
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the luminosity parameter of the digital surface by applying luminosity values to each pixel based on the photographed lighting conditions. When virtual paint is applied, the system adjusts the color parameters (specifically luminosity) to match the local lighting conditions, enabling accurate prediction of how paint will appear under different lighting scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
A method for virtually painting an image, the method comprising providing an image having a plurality of image pixel units, generating luminosity values based on color data (e.g., RGB triplets and LAB triplets) from the image pixel units, receiving a selection of one of the image pixel units, and setting a reference luminosity value based at least in part on a luminosity value of the selected image pixel unit (corresponding to a desired midpoint brightness). The method also comprises receiving a selection of a new color for virtually painting the image, calculating luminosity differences between the reference luminosity value and the luminosity values of the image pixel units, and generating and displaying overlay pixel units as an overlay with the image based on the calculated luminosity differences and the selected new color.