Color selection method and system for floor, wall, and window coverings
First Claim
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1. A method of categorizing a plurality of products by color, the method comprising the steps of:
- (a) compiling a set of flat, solid, color surfaces, including all of the colors associated with the products to be matched;
(b) determining a color value for each of the flat color surfaces;
(c) comparing samples of the products to be matched to the flat color surfaces in order to color-match each one of the samples to one of the flat color surfaces, the comparison being performed by a person in an environment of controlled lighting and reflection;
(d) assigning to each sample the color value of the flat color surface to which the sample was color-matched;
(e) categorizing each color value into a plurality of color categories;
(f) creating a color graphic representation of each of the samples on a monitor using the assigned color values;
(g) creating a design graphic representation of a texture, pattern, or other design aspect of each sample on the monitor; and
(h) creating a graphic product simulation of each of the samples by merging the color graphic representation for the sample with the design graphic representation for the sample on the monitor.
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Abstract
An improved color selection process for assisting customers when shopping for floor, wall, or window coverings is disclosed. The color selection process includes: (a) the creation of a digital and graphic computer database that classifies a store'"'"'s or other entity'"'"'s entire product inventory according to internally harmonious color families, and (b) a visualization experience, using this database, computer graphics and a specially designed color room to give customers a more realistic preview of product(s) being considered.
78 Citations
15 Claims
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1. A method of categorizing a plurality of products by color, the method comprising the steps of:
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(a) compiling a set of flat, solid, color surfaces, including all of the colors associated with the products to be matched;
(b) determining a color value for each of the flat color surfaces;
(c) comparing samples of the products to be matched to the flat color surfaces in order to color-match each one of the samples to one of the flat color surfaces, the comparison being performed by a person in an environment of controlled lighting and reflection;
(d) assigning to each sample the color value of the flat color surface to which the sample was color-matched;
(e) categorizing each color value into a plurality of color categories;
(f) creating a color graphic representation of each of the samples on a monitor using the assigned color values;
(g) creating a design graphic representation of a texture, pattern, or other design aspect of each sample on the monitor; and
(h) creating a graphic product simulation of each of the samples by merging the color graphic representation for the sample with the design graphic representation for the sample on the monitor. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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Specification