Abstract: A method of visualizing a color deviation of an actual color on a vehicle panel being painted utilizing a computer. A reference color image is displayed on a monitor to confirm that the reference color image is the appropriate color image relating to the actual color. Differences between that displayed reference color image and the actual color are inputted into the computer and the reference image is then translated into a revised color image. The revised color image is displayed on the monitor along with the reference color image such that a user can visually compare the differences between that displayed reference color image and displayed revised color image. The displayed revised color image can then be compared to the actual color to determine if any color deviations between the revised color image and the actual color remain.

Abstract: A system and method determine a paint formula that matches the color of paint of a vehicle that is to be painted in a collision center. A plurality of paint formulas are stored in a database. A portable device, such as a PDA, is mobile relative to the vehicle and is in communication with the database via a wireless connection. Vehicle information is inputted into the portable device and sent to the database. The database determines the paint formula based on the vehicle information. The paint formula is communicated to the portable device. The portable device may display a color representation of the color of the paint formula which can be instantly compared to the existing color of the vehicle before mixing the paint or painting the vehicle.

Abstract: A method for determining if a proposed color solution, such as paint, pigments, or dye formulations, is acceptable, is provided. The inputs to the system are the actual color values of an item, differential color values, a proposed color solution, and second color values associated with the proposed color solution. The system includes an artificial intelligence model to analyze the inputs and produce an output for communicating whether the proposed color solution is acceptable. The artificial intelligence model may be embodied in a neural network.