The present invention is directed to a color selection method, which includes
the steps of selecting colors in accordance with identification criteria supplied,
for example, by a vehicle manufacturer; displaying the colors in the form of color
reference chips on the screen of a display unit attached to a computer; selecting
a desired color chip from the color reference chips on the screen; accessing and
displaying color formulas; and then finally selecting a desired color formula that
lists all the ingredients needed to prepare a coating composition, such as automotive
refinish paint or architectural paint, from the color formulas displayed on the
screen. The technician can then mix the ingredients, such as tints, in the proportions
provided in the desired color formula to make the coating composition. If desired,
the method further includes sending the desired color formula to a weighing scale
or a tint dispenser attached to the computer so that the ingredients listed in
the desired formula can be weighed or dispensed automatically.
