Computerized virtual paint manufacturing and application system

General State of the art

The present invention generally relates to coating systems and in special color preparation, paint application and paint product data acquisition and processing.

Operations during Painting of motor vehicles include many devices and process controllers, mainly operate independently, to achieve their individual goals. Moreover, are to provide a total system analysis conduct of the paint, Data separately from those without structured framework to synthesize the Data detected.

it is not only difficult, information of automotive painting systems for a total system perspective to synthesize, but leave the information the "hermetic" environment of these Painting even with large Resistance. External sources such as remote customer sites need to can access this synthesized information so that they informed decisions about certain can meet operating characteristics of the vehicle coating units. For example want find customers and color manufacturers and developers, as well their experimental paint products in the automotive business environment prove. Furthermore also lack the tools needed by the remote locations, to undergo to operational parameters of fine-tuning to painting operations or -chemien which not having such predetermined standards such as the. MSDS standards be consistent, correct. Consequently, there is a need to provide these and other disadvantages associated with previous solutions for the operation color-related sites are subject to eliminate.

<patcit><text>US 5,574,656</text></patcit> discloses a computerized iterative process to Generating chemical entities with predetermined physical, chemical and / or bioactive properties, comprising the features of the preamble of claim 1. While each Iteration of the process is a chemical Directed Diversity Library according robotic synthesis instructions robotically generated, the compounds in the Directed Diversity Chemical Library are analyzed to identify compounds with desired properties, Structural property data are used to select compounds which in the next iteration are to be synthesized, and new robotic synthesis instructions are automatically generated by the synthesis of chemical Directed Diversity Library for the next to control iteration.

Summary the invention

According to the teachings of the present invention is a computer implemented apparatus for coordinating color-related process steps of at least one color-related investment by the features of the independent claim defined. Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

Short description tHE dRAWINGS

additional Advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description in the appended claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Show it:

<figref idrefs="S29">1</figref> on Process Flow Diagram, illustrating the steps involved in a Gesamtlackiersystem are;

<figref idrefs="S30">2</figref> a schematic network diagram of the data connections of the components preferred embodiment, of the present invention;

<figref idrefs="S31">3</figref> a schematic network diagram between the data connections a Lackierlabor and the virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem represents;

<figref idrefs="S32">4</figref> on functional data flow diagram the flow of data between Components of the present invention;

<figref idrefs="S33">5a</figref> a Front view of an analyte from the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung Lackierpaneels;

<figref idrefs="S33">5b</figref> a of the issued Farbanalysatoreinrichtung exemplary contours Vector, the brightness values ​​based on positions on the panel <figref idrefs="S33">5a</figref> represents;

<figref idrefs="S35">6a</figref>-<figref idrefs="S35">6b</figref> screens the color simulator computer program;

<figref idrefs="S37">7a</figref>-<figref idrefs="S37">7b</figref> schematic Representations of the memory and Data structures that are used in the present invention;

<figref idrefs="S39">8</figref> a exemplary computer screen template for data collection from and relations between resin manufacturing process control data;

<figref idrefs="S41">9</figref> a exemplary computer screen template for data collection from and the relationships between color manufacturing process controldata;

<figref idrefs="S43">10</figref> a exemplary computer screen template for data collection from and the relationships between vehicle assembly manufacturing process control data;

<figref idrefs="S45">11a</figref> an exemplary computer screen mask, which by using the links between the data structures of the present invention cross- represents dependencies;

<figref idrefs="S45">11b</figref> an exemplary computer screen mask for the Privilege level to access the information within the present invention;

<figref idrefs="S47">12</figref> on Flow chart, illustrating the use of the present invention for environmental tolerance checking;

<figref idrefs="S48">13</figref> on Flow chart, illustrating the steps that are performed in that system, which the problem solution performs and over the cause-effect analysis report refunded; and

<figref idrefs="S49">14</figref> on Flow chart, illustrating the steps for use of the system to a weekly Cause-effect analysis report shall be prepared and

<figref idrefs="S50">15</figref> a Computer printout depicting an exemplary weekly report, as it is generated by the present invention.

description the preferred embodiment

<figref idrefs="S29">1</figref> illustrated the totality of the steps in a Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem. The ultimate purpose of the whole process is made color inside predetermined tolerances on a vehicle <figref>50</figref> apply. These tolerances include quality tolerances and ecological tolerances.

Raw <figref>54</figref> shall the Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem from an external raw material manufacturing source <figref>62</figref> supplied. In addition, resin <figref>66</figref> the Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem of a internal raw material manufacturing source <figref>70</figref> supplied. The Terms "external" and "internal" APPLIES TO the sources of the material, which, as regards that undertaking that for the color production and delivery of color produced at a is vehicle assembly plant responsible, are internal or external.

data collection with respect to raw material <figref>54</figref> is a raw material control process block <figref>74</figref> performed. Similarly, is data collection with respect to resin <figref>66</figref> by a resin manufacturing process control block <figref>78</figref> performed. The by blocks <figref>74</figref> and <figref>78</figref> sensed data specifically structured to provide information on the system type with respect each process step, of the raw material <figref>54</figref> and resin <figref>66</figref> involved, provide. The data acquisition is preferably by electronic Sensors which detect the color-related characteristics, and the data electronically to the present invention for synthesis and Storage forward. Moreover, the present invention supports manual data entry and the electronic visits to the data, required by the present invention directly from databases. This novel data acquisition and its data structures from the blocks <figref>74</figref> and <figref>78</figref> used will be more fully below discussed.

formulation Guidelines <figref>82</figref> give to the manner in which raw material <figref>54</figref> and resin <figref>66</figref> in the Color manufacturing process block <figref>86</figref> to are combined to color materials <figref>90</figref> produce. These formulation Guidelines <figref>82</figref> include such guidelines, such as the amount and the temperature, in / at which raw material <figref>54</figref> and resin <figref>66</figref> are to be combined. The data detection as the production of color by the paint manufacturing process control block <figref>88</figref>,

The color material <figref>90</figref> becomes a vehicle assembly plant for processing within that plant, as indicated by block <figref>94</figref> is shown, delivered. Inside the vehicle assembly plant processing block<figref>94</figref> done data collection through an assembly plant process control block <figref>98</figref>, The block <figref>98</figref> detected, while the color material <figref>90</figref> each process step in the vehicle assembly plant processing block <figref>94</figref> passes, data, relying on color material <figref>90</figref> and his mission relate. The data obtained by the paint manufacturing process control block <figref>88</figref> and the assembly plant process control block <figref>98</figref> are detected, be for Purposes such as batch control <figref>102</figref> used. Batch control<figref>102</figref> serves only illustrative of the use of the present invention and should not limit the application scope of the present invention. The batch control <figref>102</figref> comprises analyzing the data, of the blocks <figref>88</figref> and <figref>98</figref> are detected, to determine whether the color material <figref>90</figref> within predetermined Tolerances.

The by blocks <figref>74</figref>. <figref>78</figref>. <figref>88</figref> and <figref>98</figref> acquired data are all within the computerized virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystems <figref>120</figref>Which parses the data, so that an overall system perspective can be obtained asas an environment for entities is provided to the detected by the present invention data remotely to consider.

<figref idrefs="S30">2</figref> shows a schematic network representation of the connections between components the computerized virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystems <figref>120</figref> and Data sources, which are generally under <figref>124</figref> are shown, and recipients of the Data generally under <figref>128</figref> are shown. The data sources <figref>124</figref> include data from one or more Colour laboratories <figref>132</figref>, One or more paint manufacturing plants <figref>136</figref> and one or more vehicle assembly plants <figref>140</figref> are detected.

The Colour laboratories <figref>132</figref> provide technical information about color material ready, for example mathematical models that Lackierfaktoren (Z. B. control settings Farbsprühgeräte) with Color reactions (eg. As glossy one color) interrelieren. The models are in computer-aided virtual Farbherstellungs- and application system <figref>120</figref> in the database for factor-response models <figref>144</figref> stored. In addition, make color laboratories <figref>132</figref> specifications prepared by a or more of the data structures in the virtual computerized Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem <figref>120</figref> are contained, to populate: Resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref>; Paint manufacturing data structure<figref>152</figref>; and inking data structure <figref>156</figref>,

The Resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> refers to the from resin material control process block <figref>74</figref> and from the resin manufacturing process control block <figref>78</figref> (out <figref idrefs="S29">1</figref>) data obtained. The paint manufacturing data structure<figref>152</figref> corresponds to the color from the manufacturing process control block <figref>88</figref> (out <figref idrefs="S29">1</figref>) detected Data. equally corresponds to the inking data structure <figref>156</figref> to the assembly plant process control block <figref>98</figref> (out <figref idrefs="S29">1</figref>) detected Data.

The data structures <figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> are on one or more computers, which under <figref>160</figref> general are shown. The data structures<figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> see a novel structure for supporting the data acquisition of the data sources <figref>124</figref> and the presentation and analysis of data by data receiver <figref>128</figref> in front.

The calculator <figref>160</figref> preferably within the physical Map the source of the data provided. For example, the from paint manufacturing plant <figref>136</figref> detected data preferably in a stored computer which in paint manufacturing plant <figref>136</figref> erected is.

Similarly, is a computer, the inking data structure <figref>156</figref> contains, in a Vehicle assembly plant <figref>140</figref> positioned. The data structures<figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> and the computer <figref>160</figref> are collectively referred to as process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> designated. The calculator <figref>160</figref> have the capability, depending on computerized enter security authorization data and consider what in databases on networks <figref>169</figref> are arranged, stored are.

The Information represented by the data structures <figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> structured be able to the data receiver <figref>128</figref>. For example, in remote areas of a color manufacturer <figref>164</figref> and at remote customer sites <figref>168</figref>, Query and analyze will. To the data receivers<figref>128</figref> to allow the paint system from a total system perspective analyze from, represents a technical database <figref>172</figref> additional color-related data available, for example, but not limited to, ecological and in-house quality standards.

The networks <figref>169</figref> connect the various components of the system, so that a can take place data communication. The preferred embodiment for the networks <figref>169</figref> uses an intranet network <figref>173</figref>. data communication between components within the computerized virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystems <figref>120</figref> and within Data sources <figref>124</figref> perform. Moreover, are remote sites the paint manufacturer to the intranet <figref>173</figref> tethered. The remote customer locations <figref>168</figref> are on an extranet network <figref>175</figref> tethered in order to ensure better that when Accessing the data from the computerized virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem <figref>120</figref> the appropriate security exists. Safety data are preferably in the technical database <figref>172</figref> stored, to ensure that only authorized users (who can be whatever and wherever this may be this) those portions of the virtual within the computerized Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystems <figref>120</figref> consider information contained can, for their consideration they are entitled.

<figref idrefs="S31">3</figref> provides the preferred embodiment of Data connection between one of the color laboratories <figref>132</figref> and the computerized virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystem <figref>120</figref> represent. Within the color laboratories <figref>132</figref> be the varnishing devices <figref>242</figref> by tax settings <figref>244</figref> controlled to paint on vehicles to spray. The spray paint is a Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> analyzed. The Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> checks the physical characteristics of spray paint, so that a subsequent show analysis can, like the color in different conditions and responds in various formulations. The Farbanalysatoreinrichtung<figref>246</figref> checks physical Characteristics such as color (eg. B .: L, a, b values in different angles), history (in the form of wave scan values) Gloss, haze and film thickness. In the preferred embodiment, the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung is<figref>246</figref> a as "PROSÍM" known device, which can be purchased from BASF.

The Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> preferably in data communication with a color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref>, The color simulation computer program<figref>248</figref> modeled the relationship between Kraftfahrzeuglackiergeräten and spray paint, so that desired Lackiercharakteristiken can be achieved. A Database Factor-response models <figref>144</figref> is used for storing mathematical Models used which Lackierfaktoren with Lackierreaktionen interrelieren. Lackierfaktoren relate to the control settings<figref>244</figref> the varnishing devices <figref>242</figref>, Lackierreaktionen reflect such Lackiercharakteristiken such as those of the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> receive can be.

The Color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref> uses experimental design methods as well as optimization methods to the values ​​for the on Lackierreaktionen the base-to-reach desired Lackiertoleranzen be determined. In favor of a broader understanding the color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref>, Please refer US Ser. 08 / 822.669 (entitled "Paint Equipment Set-up Method and Apparatus"), filed on 24th March 1997.

On The purpose of the color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref> is the ability the recognition of regions within the mathematical models which must be better defined. For example, a range of Lackierfaktorwerten, to lead relatively low R-squared values ​​for the color reactions, regions within the mathematical models that need improvement. These regions be by means of a design of experiments method within the mathematical models by are specifically tested the color lab, and data points by the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> detected. The experimental planning factor-response models be improved to this additional integrate detail.

Of the calculator <figref>160</figref> uses the color production data structure <figref>152</figref>. to data from the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> and the Color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref> capture. These detected Data are for multiple uses, including performing batch control (d. h. to ensure compliance with quality standards, the are contained in the technical database) to ensure. Such color characteristic data such as the ink film thickness data of the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> be with the color Type within the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> interreliert.

On Another example is the following. The color simulation computer program<figref>248</figref> performs experimental design calculations on the basis of data from the Farbanalysatoreinrichtung <figref>246</figref> by, to determine which parameters and variables in the paint manufacturing and in the vehicle assembly plant significantly are. These determined relevant parameters are in the process control data structures (For example, the paint manufacturing data structure and the vehicle assembly data structure) inserted.

<figref idrefs="S32">4</figref> shows the detailed information between the aforementioned Components of the present invention. In the preferred embodiment leads the PROSÍM device <figref>246</figref> the color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref> Color characteristic data , so that factor / control settings determined can be, certain Farberscheinungsbild- and -auftragsreaktionen of spray paint to arise.

The Data from the device PROSÍM <figref>246</figref> are the process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> used to perform the batch control. Within This feature allows the PROSÍM device <figref>246</figref>, The coloring material from an ink manufacturing plant to analyze to ensure compliance with predetermined quality standards to ensure. The batch control data from the device PROSÍM <figref>246</figref> will used to manufacture the color data structure <figref>152</figref> to populate (Particularly with respect to the quality forward portion of the data structure).

how described above, the color simulation computer program operated <figref>248</figref> a database for factor-response models <figref>144</figref>. to perform his experimental design calculations. In addition, the updated Color simulation computer program <figref>248</figref> the database for factor-response models <figref>144</figref> on the basis of actual Farbsprühsystemleistungsdaten, which by the PROSÍM device <figref>246</figref> provided will. The color simulation computer program<figref>248</figref> looks together with the Database Factor-response models <figref>144</figref> the ability before, variable parameters on the technical database <figref>172</figref> to monitor and control. The technical Database <figref>172</figref> contains in its preferred embodiment, Information such as paint product portfolio information <figref>270</figref>, Ecology Information <figref>272</figref>. communication information <figref>274</figref> and quality information <figref>276</figref> (for example the Erstlauffähigkeit). The technical database <figref>172</figref> also contains Anliegen- and analysis request forms <figref>280</figref>. so that problem areas and concerns and their subsequent analysis and solution are detected can. safety data <figref>277</figref> how an entity, the outside the computerized virtual Farbherstellungs- and -auftragssystems <figref>120</figref> lies, can access the information, are also in the technical Database <figref>172</figref> contain.

Of the Process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> synthesized and packages the data from the data sources so that remote Systems are able, the historical, current and potential Operating characteristics of the entire painting system efficiently and effectively analyze (ie analysis of the life story). Of the Process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> synthesized and packages the data into the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref>. the color production data structure <figref>152</figref> and the inking data structure <figref>156</figref> based on the provided data type and on what specific data source the data has provided.

moreover provides the process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> the Data targets problem solving and -meldeinformationen, based on said information provided by the computerized Anliegen- and analysis request forms <figref>280</figref> were detected, to disposal. The problem-solving reporting module <figref>282</figref> allows remote data destinations, earlier solutions for equal to use stored problems to solve existing problems. Furthermore provided by a weekly report module <figref>284</figref> the process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> for an automated ability the information from the various components of the present send invention to the remote data destinations.

Of the Process control coordinator <figref>246</figref> sees a Timestamp each date, which is received from the data sources, before. This generates not only a historical baseline <figref>285</figref>, rather allows also, the amount of change at different times in the entire paint manufacturing system analyze.

<figref idrefs="S33">5a</figref> shows, as the PROSÍM device color characteristic data from panel <figref>290</figref> detected. The areas, by way of example by reference numeral <figref>291</figref> marked are, illustrate where the PROSIM device performs its measurements. For this For different amounts of base coat <figref>292</figref> on the panel <figref>290</figref> applied. The top<figref>290a</figref> of panel included a thin Base coat layer, whereas the bottom <figref>290b</figref> the panel a greater degree of base coat included. For this Example A uniform amount Clearcoat <figref>294</figref> on the panel <figref>290</figref> applied. The method with different amounts, what base coat layer, <figref>292</figref> relates, is possible with the PROSÍM device, since the PROSÍM device color characteristic data across the entire panel detected.

Around To illustrate the Gesamtpaneelanalysemethode the PROSÍM device, shows <figref idrefs="S33">5b</figref> on outputted from the PROSÍM device contours graphic pattern <figref>300</figref>. the to the brightness value of the color with the position of the color the panel in <figref idrefs="S33">5a</figref> interreliert. The abscissa<figref>302</figref> shows the vertical position values ​​of the panel, while the ordinate <figref>304</figref> the horizontal position values ​​of the panel shows. regions within the contours Vector <figref>300</figref> show how the brightness values dependent on vary from the Paneelposition. For example, the Region<figref>306</figref> a area on the panel which has a brightness value on a reference bar <figref>308</figref> is provided.

<figref idrefs="S35">6a</figref> is an exemplary screen mask of the color simulation computer program, where Factor / control settings Lacksprühgeräte generally below <figref>330</figref> shown will. The factor settings are mathematical models interreliert with certain reactions of spray paint, such as general among <figref>334</figref> and <figref>338</figref> is shown. The mathematical Models were generated by experimental design methods. In this Example generate Glockendrehzahl- that Formungsluft- and Bells fluid-factor / control settings <figref>330</figref> about the mathematical models and Farberscheinungsbild- -auftragsreaktion, which with reference number <figref>334</figref> and <figref>338</figref> illustrated becomes.

With with reference to <figref idrefs="S35">6b</figref> is an optimizer <figref>342</figref> used to one or more of the factor / control settings and / or response values to keep at a certain level or in a particular area, wherein other settings and / or responses within a predetermined may fluctuate range. In this example, the bells and Formungsluft- fluid-factor were / control settings fixed at 36 pounds per square inch and 295 cubic centimeters / minute. moreover was in this example the average film-forming reaction by the optimizer <figref>342</figref> to within the range of 0.90 to 1.0 mil fixed lying. The optimizer<figref>342</figref> operated preferably a simplex algorithm such as that of the software product Microsoft Excel^(TM) provided.

<figref idrefs="S37">7a</figref> shows the process control data structure template <figref>353</figref>. which in computer memory <figref>360</figref> the computer <figref>160</figref> contain is. These components are part of the process control coordinator<figref>162</figref>,

The Process control data structure template <figref>353</figref> interreliert color-related data with one or more relevant process steps the Farbsprühsystems. The process steps <figref>364</figref> include those Steps, which in the process of Colour laboratories or a resin production plant or a color generation plant or a vehicle assembly plant are used. For example , a process step in a vehicle assembly plant to process step when the color located in the warehouse or if the color is in the mixing chamber, or the specific Sprühfarbenschicht, which was applied to a vehicle, comprising.

The Paint device data structure <figref>368</figref> interreliert with relevant process steps <figref>364</figref> such paint device-related Data such as device type, accessories and equipment configuration.

The Process data structure <figref>370</figref> interreliert with relevant process steps <figref>364</figref> such process-related Data as environmental parameters, constant parameters and variable parameters. The environment parameters include such items as line speed, Cabin temperature and humidity. The constant parameters include are, but not limited on, order parameters, which for each color are substantially constant (eg. B. oven temperature / profile, Target distance). The variable parameters include, but are not limited on, order parameters, which for each color are different (eg. as fluid rate, bell speed).

The Material data structure <figref>372</figref> captures and stores such material-related data as material parameters, additions to Material mixture and consumption data. Specifically, consumption data refers to use information, for example the use of resources or materials for a given period (eg. as on a daily basis) or consumption of resources or materials for a vehicle. The material data structure<figref>372</figref> is preferably not interreliert with the process steps, as material-related data for usually only at the end of a whole process (for example, at the end of Resin manufacturing process) detected will.

The Quality forward data structure <figref>373</figref> captures and stores such quality forward-related Data as test data and evaluation data. The term "quality forward" refers to the testing of quality from such points as defects the material before the material produced by a painting becomes. Quality forward uses usually laboratory tests, predictions about such a material should behave in production to formulate. The color lab configuration <figref idrefs="S31">3</figref> is preferably used to such predictions for the quality forward data structure <figref>373</figref> to formulate. Quality forward data structure<figref>373</figref> is preferably not interreliert with the process steps, as the quality forward-related data be detected normally, before a process for a product begins (for example, at the beginning of the color manufacturing process).

With with reference to <figref idrefs="S37">7b</figref> detects and stores the quality backward data structure <figref>374</figref> such quality backward related Data such quality backward data the first category quality backward data reverse data of the second category and quality the third category. The quality backward data structure<figref>374</figref> interreliert with relevant process steps <figref>364</figref> such quality backward related Data as of usually three categories of quality backward data. The first category is internal process dedicated batch control. The second category is Mängelart / type, dedicated quantification and evaluation. The third category is dedicated: Symptoms, interim mitigation measures to identify possible Cause (s), identification of the root cause, verification of Corrective actions, permanent corrective actions and preventive measures. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to three categories is, but depending on the application specification only one or two may include categories. For example, the paint application data structure preferably only the category two and three for the quality backward related Data because, for usually the in-process Batch control is not performed in the colorization process.

Of the Term "quality backward" refers to the Vote the process on the basis of quality prediction, problem points and solutions identified in the "quality forward" data were. In this function acts "quality backward" as a control loop to fine tune the process.

The personal data structure <figref>375</figref> interreliert with relevant process steps <figref>364</figref> such personal data as standard training program, job name and job descriptions.

The Lackierwirtschaftsdatenstruktur <figref>376</figref> interreliert with relevant process steps <figref>364</figref> such Lackierwirtschaftsdaten as the amount of money per kilogram per gallon a particular color type, the amount of money to a given motor vehicle to spray paint and both internal and external quality costs.

recently A contract data structure <figref>384</figref> provided contract data, For example, the contract identification number and parties and obligations for one Treaty are relevant, with relevant process steps <figref>364</figref> to interrelieren.

Of the Process control coordinator <figref>162</figref> heprovides and leads the process control data structure template <figref>353</figref> during the Data acquisition steps from any data source.

<figref idrefs="S39">8</figref> provides the preferred embodiment of Process control data structure template for the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> represent. The process steps, which with the device, Process-, Qualitätsrückwärts-, persons, Commercial and contract modules of the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> to interrelieren are, are the following: material receipt, material storage, Preparation of reactor / vessel, intermediate processing, Feed of reactor / vessel, processing, Charge setting, material transfer, filtration, filling, equipment cleaning, Product storage and product delivery. It should be understood that the present Invention is not limited these process steps limited is. The above-mentioned List merely exemplary character and can, on the basis extended the respective specific application or be shortened.

The primary input materials by the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> described are, the chemicals that are used to make the resins produce. The chemicals and their properties are in Raw module of the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> described. The primary output product obtained by the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> described is, the resins which are produced from the chemicals.

<figref idrefs="S41">9</figref> provides the preferred embodiment of Process control data structure template for the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> represent. The process steps, which with the device, Process-, Qualitätsrückwärts-, persons, Commercial and Contract modules during the manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> to interrelieren are, are the following: material receipt, material storage, Provision of materials, equipment preparation, raw material transfer, Intermediate processing, batch blending, batch adjustment, filling process, equipment cleaning process, product storage and product delivery to the vehicle assembly plant. It should be understood, that the present invention is not limited to these process steps. The above-mentioned List merely exemplary character and can, on the basis extended the respective specific application or be shortened.

The primary input materials which by the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> described are the resins which the products of the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> are and external raw materials (for example, pigments; the external raw materials are by reference numeral <figref>62</figref> in <figref idrefs="S29">1</figref> shown). The resins, the external raw materials, and the properties associated therewith are the raw material modulus of the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> described. The primary output product obtained by the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> described is, are the color materials produced, which from the resins and the external raw materials are produced.

<figref idrefs="S43">10</figref> provides the preferred embodiment the process control data structure template for the Inking data structure <figref>156</figref> . The process steps which with the device, Process-, Qualitätsrückwärts-, persons, Commercial and contract modules of the inking data structure <figref>156</figref> to Storage-customer, storage-customer mixing space: interrelieren are following are Mixing chamber, precleaning, phosphate, electrophoretic coating, Cleaning by hand, cleaning automated manual job, Robot inside / outside, Rotary atomizer bells, Aero diffuser-Reciprocator, Evaporation, blowing, infrared, ovens, various automated applications, manual auxiliary operations, automatic Auxiliary operations, Zone without application operation, sealant, underbody undercoating, wax, window glazing, Transportation concerns and coagulation. It should be understood that the present Invention is not limited these process steps limited is. The above-mentioned List merely exemplary character and can, on the basis extended the respective specific application or be shortened.

The primary input materials by the ink application data structure <figref>156</figref> described are those color materials that the products during the manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> are. The color materials and their properties are in the material module the inking data structure <figref>156</figref> described. The primary output Product obtained by the ink application data structure <figref>156</figref> described is, are the color coatings on vehicles.

There it in any painting process (d. h. Harzherstellungs-, Farbherstellungs- and colorization process) to variations comes, the data structures are <figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> structured so that variations and cross Abhängigke ites between materials and process steps can be analyzed within each painting process. moreover exists between the data structures <figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> at least a common denominator / a common link, so that variations and dependencies across between materials and process steps over the analyzes entire painting process can be. Preferably, the linkage is between the data structures <figref>148</figref>. <figref>152</figref> and <figref>156</figref> the output materials from one data structure that entered the Material corresponding to a different data structure. examplewise the resin material of the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> used order to link with information in the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> contain are, since the output of the resin manufacturing data structure <figref>148</figref> the Entering the paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> equivalent. Numeric identifiers are preferably used to control the materials, which link the data structures, clearly marked. <figref idrefs="S45">11a</figref> is a computer screen mask, which is an example of using the links providing between the data structures to dependencies across by a color process to another to investigate. In this non-limiting Example is the problem which in the quality backward data structure is about Materials and processes for possible Root cause, namely that a used false quality assurance testing is to certify to that resin is # 419 permitted for use in the production, traced. In addition, it should be understood that the present invention not only to the linking limited two data structures is, but also the linking all three data structures includes, a complete to make life history view of the entire system, for example by Providing a life history view from the paint application data structure <figref>156</figref> about the Paint manufacturing data structure <figref>152</figref> The resin production data structure <figref>148</figref>,

<figref idrefs="S45">11b</figref> the preferred embodiment provides for ensuring that the Data are considered by remote data target locations in a secure manner, would. For example, the colors work area manager, by a computer system identifier would be identified, only able to view data within the present invention, the refer to their own work.

<figref idrefs="S47">12</figref> provides the steps are, in which the remote data target locations the information from the various components of the present invention operate to the spray painting system control. In process block<figref>400</figref> a user receives, for example, a customer, certain from a remote site technical information regarding the Farbsprühsystems. To Product Data Sheets to obtain a customer calls a process block <figref>404</figref> preferably by clicking on an icon on the screen of the remote data destination for a specific color-related product on. The requested product data sheet is in process block <figref>408</figref> out read out of the technical data base and sent to the customer. In process block <figref>412</figref> considered a group customer Hygiene information Product Data Sheet and created in process block <figref>416</figref> all relevant emissions data. Preferably the deposed calculated automatic data destination, the emission data for the group and creates a Report, which determines whether the data on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the emission data in the predetermined range, the Because of the environmental Thresholds, which are contained in the technical database, is determined. The determination is performed by decision block<figref>420</figref>,

If Decision block <figref>420</figref> notes that all VOC and emissions data in predetermined range, then the Product in process block <figref>424</figref> Entered "usable". However, if the decision block <figref>420</figref> detects that the specified areas were injured, then makes use of remote data destination of the Color simulation computer program and the data in the technical Database, to return the paint formulation in the predetermined range. This processing is performed by process block <figref>428</figref>,

<figref idrefs="S48">13</figref> provides the steps for using the present invention when performing a Troubleshooting and Sign is the cause and effect analysis. The term "VIS" refers to the information display portions of the present invention for the data receiver.

at process block <figref>440</figref> recognizes a customer that a Problem has occurred in an assembly plant of the customer. The customer accesses the process control coordinator data to order at decision block <figref>448</figref> to determine whether in the Past an already like Problem occurred. If the problem in the past, not has occurred, intercepts the customer at process block <figref>452</figref> the Concern analysis form to which the technical database of the present invention is contained. Below begins the process block <figref>456</figref> a solution process and updates the technical database with the manner in which to which the request was addressed and resolved. In process block<figref>460</figref> is the customer is able to access the technical database, to the status of any open PR &amp; Rs (ie problem solving and check message).

If Decision block <figref>448</figref> has found that the problem earlier occurred, the customer determined in process block <figref>464</figref> the stored Corrective actions, which have been taken with respect to the same bearing problem. If, as the decision block <figref>468</figref> is detected, corrective action are still active and are still used in the factory environment, then the process will block <figref>452</figref> executed. If However, past corrective actions are not active and are not used, then decision block <figref>472</figref> of remote data destination determines who is responsible for implementing corrective action responsible for. The Entdecision block <figref>472</figref> builds this Information in the first line on the agreement data structure of the Process control coordinator on. If the customer is responsible, then examines the customer at process block <figref>476</figref> the Failure and implemented the corrective action plan anew or change this. The customer used in process block <figref>476</figref> the Information contained in the technical database, as well as the information of the color simulation computer program and the process control coordinator, to investigate the failure and correct. If, as indicated by the contract data structure is determined, the work responsibility for the corrective action bears, then notifies the remote data destination plant personnel in process block <figref>480</figref>. so that plant personnel at process block <figref>484</figref> the examine failure and the solution may report to the customer.

<figref idrefs="S49">14</figref> shows the steps which generate and use the automated weekly reports the process control coordinator are involved, the operating parameters of the Farbsprühsystems analyze and control. In process block<figref>500</figref> give representatives the technical service of the work batch-specific data in the Process control coordinator data structures in a real time. The lot-specific data includes product data, Plant data, batch performance data and the occurrence of defects and the type of deficiencies. Of the Process control coordinator generates a product-specific report that the activities at the plant cites in detail, where he uses information which the technical databases and the process control coordinator data structures to be provided.

at process block <figref>504</figref> accesses plant personnel on the weekly Report from the process control coordinator to, so that when process block <figref>508</figref> plant personnel can use the information to track performance and consistency. This information is for releasing problems and to track the occurrence of defects after used products. Furthermore, in process block<figref>512</figref> the weekly report for Customers automatically generated. The customer uses the automatic weekly report for Operation analysis as: tracking batches in specific time frames to inquire for warranty; respect Werksprodukt- and -prozeßänderungen to stay updated; Access information about experimental products and experimental products; Accessing assembly plant product information; Track the plant capacity at the assembly plant; and looking at Erstlaufkapazität of Assembly plant weekly for products.

<figref idrefs="S50">15</figref> illustrated a pattern of weekly Report according to the present Invention. In the weekly Report shows what concrete during what time frame for a specific has color occurred. Such information can be used are to problems in a batch for a particular week or more ascertain weeks.