System and method for disseminating color ink and colorant formulas

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a system and method for electronically communicating, coordinating and distributing particular compositions to produce colored ink between multiple pages.

[0002] Currently, there are electronic hardware and software systems for producing color that independently and independently perform tasks related to the production of color-related products. For example, a known system reads the visible spectrum of a color sample and generates data on the measured values ​​of light absorbed or reflected at specific points in the spectrum. Any color has a spectral curve associated with it that acts as a color signature. After determining the spectral curve, the visible spectrum and coefficients are processed in such a way as to predict the color composition for the color reproduction. The color composition can then be analyzed to create a color ink composition to create a color.

[0003] Other possibilities of color representation are also available, for example RGB represents the level of red, green and blue in color. CMYK represents the level of cyan, magenta, yellow and red in a given color. An accurate translation between the color representations is ensured, for example a RGB to CMYK ratio for computer monitors and computer printers. Accurate color reproduction is partly achieved by retrieving data for a number of input and output devices, e.g. printers, monitors and color measuring devices, and modifying color translocation compositions to suit individual devices receiving data. Computer software packages such as ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR and PAGEMAKER provide such conversion functionality.

[0004] Another known system provides a method and apparatus for accurately matching colors. For example, spectral data is acquired from a color measuring device and the corresponding color is matched in the electronic color library. The desired color is compared to the colors stored in the electronic color library and the color or colors in the library that are in the specified color range are reported. By searching the electronic library, the traditional set of standard color samples used to locate the desired color is replaced. However, the electronic color library is susceptible to problems related to the reproduction of samples from many devices.

[0005] A further method involves receiving information regarding the designer's computer image and converting the RGB settings to a CIELAB value. Computer software packages such as ADOBE PHOTOSHOP provide this type of conversion functionality.

[0006] Currently, there are ways to define color ink compositions suitable for preparing ink to create a specific color. However, there is no suitable system that would allow, for example, a designer of color-related products to identify the color and specific substrate and automatically generate a color ink composition suitable for creating a color on the substrate that could be automatically transferred to another page, for example an ink producer.

[0007] WO03017144 discloses a system that allows electronic communication, coordination and dissemination of color-related designs, specifications and products. The production and maintenance of colors in a simultaneous manner are provided between a number of separate pages, in essentially 'real time'. Integrated color production is adapted to import an electronic output signal to automatically provide product data to and from a number of geographically dispersed pages. Integrated color production is adapted to import the electronic output signal from a wide variety of devices, including hardware and software related to color production and additionally uses an output signal, for automatic delivery of product data to and from a number of geographically dispersed websites. An electronic library is also provided, including the colors and textures used to accurately match the color sample ί / or specifications. The integrated online color production system enables the parties to work with the greatest efficiency, ensuring a high level of sales and customer satisfaction.

[0008] US4843574 discloses a computer aided design system that includes means for changing the color of a part of a design created on the screen. The selected color of the design part is then measured to provide a set of values ​​describing the colors that will be necessary during the next reproduction of the selected color in the actual clothing or other product.

[0009] EP0859300 discloses an outfit design and a production aiding method that streamlines the processing steps from an outfit design to creating a photocopy for a matrix used during actual production, allows a sample to be made without preparing copies of the copies or templates for actual production and allows a reduction consumption of the amount of dyes during production. After the creation of the original data containing staining boundary data and color data and overlap on network points reflected by the four primary colors, a standard pattern prints a color pattern using inks and drawing agents to assess them. Next, the material used in actual production is stained as a sample by means of network points represented by four basic colors and after the evaluation of the sample, copies of the copies are made. A lot of work can be done in one system while combining data.

Summary of the Invention [0010] The need has been given above for a system that will allow electronic communication, coordination and distribution of color ink compositions between parties involved in the creation of color-related products.

This goal is achieved thanks to the specific characteristics of the wzastrz. 1.

The dependent claims describe preferred features of the invention.

[0011] The present invention provides a system and method for electronically selecting at least one composition of a color ink that is suitable for producing a color based on at least one of a number of criteria. In one example, a number of colors and criteria are provided in an electronic manner. Furthermore, a number of color ink compositions are provided electronically which are adapted to define ink suitable for creating a single color based on other criteria. The user preferably electronically chooses from a certain number of colors and additionally electronically selects at least one criterion from a certain number

-3kryterrów. The present invention matches electronically the selected color and the chosen criterion, thus enabling an electronic selection of the appropriate color ink composition. Preferably, the selected color ink composition is electronically sent to a receiving side, e.g. an ink producer.

[0012] In addition, the present invention provides electronic color information representing the colors stored in the electronic color memory. After selecting a color, a number of color ink compositions are provided that are adapted to define the ink suitable to create the selected color. In addition, another choice may be made to define the substrate or other criteria that may affect the composition of the colored ink to create the color. In addition, the user can choose from a number of color ink compositions. The selected color ink composition (or a number of color ink compositions) can be sent via a communication network, e.g. the Internet or a local intranet to another page, e.g. an ink producer.

Description of the drawings [0013] For the purpose of presenting the invention, preferred embodiments are shown in the figures, it being understood that the invention is not limited to these solutions and designs. The functions and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description and in reference to the figures, of which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an example of a hardware layout for a color ink distribution system made according to the principles of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a block diagram of functional elements of local processors and user terminals;

Fig. 3 shows the links between database tables used in an embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 shows the links between respective pages;

Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing process control regarding the association of color ink compositions in a color library;

Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing control of the process of selecting one or more compositions of color inks and sending selected compositions of color inks to a specialist;

Fig. 7 shows the interaction of a color library table and table 26 of other criteria to produce a number of colored ink compositions; and

Fig. 8 illustrates the relationship between a color library table, color samples, color pigments for ink creation and numerical mapping, e.g. in RGB format for display purposes.

Description of embodiments [0014] The term "website" as used herein refers to a related set of files that are stored on one or more "network servers" and which, when transmitted to a user terminal, result in the user terminal displaying ί / or performing program activities. , corresponding to the data contained in the files. Usually, files containing a website are prepared in one or several combinations of HTML (Hiptertext Mark-Up Language), XML (Extendable Mark-Up Language), Java Applets, ActiveX programs, and SGML (Standard Generalized Mark) language. -Up Language) and this

-4podobnych. The web page files are usually sent to the user's terminal using one or more protocols such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) in the TCPZIP communication protocol package (Transmission Control Protocol / Interpreet Protocol).

[0015] In addition, the term "browser" refers to a program embedded and operating on a user terminal that acts as an HTTP client by sending queries about web page files to web servers. The request is usually sent in the form of a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) or by selecting a link. The browser works to receive a file and / or data from a web server and format the received files and / or data in the manner described here, displaying them on the user terminal. Examples of the browser programs are MICROSOFT INTERNET EXPLORER and NETSCAPE COMMUNICATOR .

[0016] Furthermore, the term "visually perceivable representation¹¹ it concerns the perception of color by the human eye or other detection device, regardless of the representation carrier, i.e. computer monitor, paper, printed press, etc.

[0017] The term "link" refers to a selectable connection from one or a number of words, images or other information objects to others, wherein the connection is shown in a web browser. The information object may include sound and / or video. clicking on a link using an input device such as a mouse, a trackball and the like. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that any method by which the object depicted on the screen can be selected will be appropriate.

Furthermore, the term "suitable" as used herein generally refers to something suitable in terms of quality, e.g. after agreement between the parties to the business transaction. According to the present invention, the color may be suitable as a match to the target color, even if the target color is not In addition, the ink may be suitable to produce a color even if the color provided by the ink is not identical to the target color.

[0019] As used herein, the term "fits" or "matching" generally refers to an activity identifying a relevant part that requires little / no human involvement or interaction, whether it is self-contained or using an electronic device. and / or composition of dyes.

[0020] With reference to the figures in which the same reference numerals refer to the same elements, Fig. 1 is a schematic of an exemplary system for distributing a color ink composition made according to the principles of the present invention and designed essentially as a "Distribution System 2" Colored Ink. " The system 2 preferably comprises one or more local processors 4 connected to one or more user terminals 6 in the communication network 8.

[0021] The local processor 4 preferably comprises all the databases necessary for the purposes of the present invention. It can be seen that the core processor 4 can access any desired database via a communication network 8 or any other communication network with which the core processor 4 can connect. If it is a separate device, the core processor 4 can communicate with the database using any communication method, including a direct serial or parallel interface, via a local or wide area network.

[0022] The user terminals 6 communicate with the processors 4 by means of data links 9, which are respectively connected to the communication network 8. The communication network 8 can be any network

- telecommunications, but it is usually the Internet or other type of global computer network. The data links 9 can have any known arrangement allowing access to the communication network 8, e.g. SLiP / PPP (dial-up series, line interface, point-to-point protocol), ISDN (integrated services digital network), dedicated leased line service, broadband (cable) access, packet switched network, DSL (digital subscriber line), ATM (asynchronous transfer fashion) or other technologies providing access *.

[0023] The user terminals 6 have the ability to send and receive data over the entire communication network 8 and are equipped with web browsers to display the received data on the built-in screens. For example, the user terminals 6 may be personal computers, e.g. Intel Pentium class computers or Apple Macintosh computers, and they are not limited to these computers, other terminals may communicate via a global computer network, e.g. laptop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs) ) and massively accessible internet access devices such as Internet TV. The user terminals 6 also include related equipment such as printers, monitors, scanners and the like.

[0024] Further, for convenience purposes, the term "workstation" as used herein refers to the user terminal 6 and if it is implied by the context, furthermore, it relates to a person operating the user terminal 6.

In addition, the terms "workstation characteristics" and "user terminal characteristics" as used herein refer to the functional elements of each workstation, including, but not limited to, central processors, ROMs, RAM, screens, print devices, network interfaces, disk drives. , floppy drives, cassette drives, CD-ROMs or DVDs, databases and application code, and one tub with several input devices, for example a keyboard, mouse, ball manipulator, etc.

In addition, the hardware arrangement according to the present invention is not limited to devices that are physically connected to the communication network 8. It should be borne in mind that wireless devices using the wireless application protocol (WAP) may cooperate with local processors 4, using wireless links data communication.

[0027] According to the present invention, the user terminal 6 provides user access to the core processors 4 to receive and provide product related data related to the color. The specific functionality provided by System 2, and in particular the core processors 4, are described in detail below.

[0028] System 2 uses software that provides color-related functionality. For example, a number of types of information are stored and recoverable in software that is preferably located on one or more local processors. Examples of information types include electronic color information, color ink compositions, and strength. One of the functions performed by the local processor 4 is the support of the web server and the host of the website. The core processors 4 usually communicate with the communication network 8 in a fixed, i.e., non-switched data link. A permanent connection ensures that access to local processors 4 is always possible.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 2, the functional elements of each core processor 4 preferably include one or more CPU processors 10 used to implement the software code to control the local processor 4, read-only memory (ROM) 12, direct access memory (RAM) 14, one or more network interfaces 16, for transmitting and

Receiving data to and from other computing devices in the communication network, storage device 18, e.g. a hard disk, floppy, cassette, CD-ROM or DVD drive, for storing program code, databases and application code, one or more input devices 20, e.g. keyboard, mouse, clay manipulator. and screen 22.

[0030] The various components of the core processor 4 need not be physically comprised on the same frame or even located in the same position. For example, according to the above description regarding the databases that are in the memory device 18, the memory device 18 may be located remote from the rest of the core processor 4 and may even be connected to the CPU 10 in the communication network 8 by network interface 18.

The functional elements shown in Fig. 2 (indicated by numerals 12-22) belong preferably to the same category of functional elements, preferably located in the user terminal 6. However, not all elements must be present, e.g. memory devices in the case of PDAs . In addition, the performance of various components has been provided in such a way as to meet the user's expected demand. For example, the CPU 10 in the user terminal 6 may have a lower performance than the CPU 10 on the core processor 4. Similarly, it is likely that the core processor 4 will include a memory device 18 with a much larger capacity than the memory device 18 present in the user terminal 6. Of course those skilled in the art will recognize that the performance of the functional elements can be adapted to the needs.

The nature of the present invention is that those skilled in the field of writing computer (program) codes may implement specific functions using one or several popular computer programming languages ​​including, but not limited to, "C ++", Visual Basic, Java , ActiveX, XML, HTML and other development environments for web applications, for example ALLAIRE "S COLD FUSION® and MICROSOFT '^ FRONT PAGE®.

[0033] References for displaying data on a user terminal 6, as used herein, relate to the process of transmitting data to a user terminal via a communication network 8 and processing data in such a way that the data can be viewed on the display screen 22 using a web browser and the like. The screens on terminals 6 represent areas in System 2, thanks to which the user can move from area to area within System 2, selecting the appropriate link. Thanks to this, the experience of each user in System 2 will result from the order in which they move between the screens. In other words, because the system is not completely hierarchical in terms of screen layout, users can move from area to area without having to "back-trace" through a series of screens.

[0034] Although the present invention has been described as an example in terms of a network system using web browsers and a network server (core processor 4), System 2 is not limited to such a particular configuration. It should be remembered that System 2 can be provided in such a way that the user terminal 6 can communicate with and additionally transmit, receive and display data to and from the core processor 4 using any communication and display method, e.g. using a non-web browser connected to the network protocol local area, such as the work (Internetwork Packet Exchange) protocol. Any suitable operating system can operate on the user terminal, e.g. WINDOWS 3.x, WINDOWS 95, WINDOWS 98, WINDOWS CE,

-7 WINDOWS NT, LINUX and any computer operating system intended for PDA or PALM devices.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, System 2 provides a general, easy-to-use website that allows users to send and receive data regarding the development of one or more colored products. More specifically, System 2 allows users to identify a color and select one or more compositions of colored inks to create an ink suitable to create the selected color. Specialists in the field of color products, including customers, designers, distributors, printers, processors, etc., preferably cooperate with each other and with the System 2 itself via one or more of the hardware and / or software user interfaces. User interfaces contain screen controls, for example, text input areas, drop-down lists, buttons and on-screen menus that provide users with tools to add, view and edit data. [0036] In a preferred embodiment, the user terminal 6 receives data from a color measuring device 7, for example a spectrocolorimeter. A data stream is transmitted, which can be initially formatted to many device-related ("native") configurations. For example, the data value sequences from some measuring devices 7 correspond to the time period in which the reflectance curves are read. 7 may have a reading interval of the spectral reflectance curve of the order of 20 nm, which allows to generate a data sequence including patterns of 16 digits. Another measuring device 7 may have a range of 10nm leading to obtaining data formatted in a sequence of 31 digits. The data is preferably received, formatted into a general standard and processed irrespective of their device-dependent features.

[0037] Still referring to the above example, the user terminal 6 accepts the received data, translates the data into clear representations, performs data calculations (e.g., averaging and interpolating the color data) and further transmits data to another hardware or software application in many formats. The data is preferably sent directly to the receiving devices. Alternatively, the formatted data is sent to the core processor 4 and then redirected to the appropriate receiving equipment and software applications.

[0038] In another embodiment, the user terminal 6 cooperates with the color measuring device 7 and receives the spectral data, but does not perform any processing functions. The user terminal 6 transmits the spectral data to the core processor 4 at substantially the same time as the data is received from the measuring device 7. The programmed data formatting procedures cooperate with the core processor 4 and the data is further sent to the software hardware or applications.

[0039] In yet another embodiment, the color measuring device 7 is not used in the development of the colored product. Instead, a sample color is created or found on the user terminal 6 using the software provided by the system. For example, the designer operating the user terminal 6 creates a color sample. The sample is sent to System 2 and the development of the colored product is continued. In this embodiment, none of the parties uses any measurement device 7, except for the user terminal 6.

[0040] The ink composition can be determined by manually mixing the dyes selected by the shader and the following visual or instrument assist color confirmation. The ink composition can also be determined using the software application

Computer-aided color matching (CCM), also known as a computer-aided color program or computer program for predicting a formula. The composition of the ink comes either from the initial attempt of possible combinations of dyes, for example done 1, 2 and 3 times in a circular manner (linking algorithm) or from obtaining a close but unacceptable color from the library and composition modification to provide an acceptable color '.

[0041] Fig. 3 shows the interaction of database tables in a preferred embodiment of the invention. Tables are used by System 2 to store and manipulate data on the development of color ink compositions. System 2 users preferably have access to the database tables and data contained therein. In a preferred embodiment, the users receive an indication to a specific database table and / or the data contained therein, instead of receiving the entire database tables or data on the user terminal 6.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 3, the color library table 24 preferably includes color registers. For example, spectral data for a particular color is stored in the color library table 24. Other types of information stored in the color library table are compositions of colored inks that can reproduce colors. In addition to spectral data and color ink compositions, spectral data and color ink compositions in the color library table 24 relate to a number of color names, other criteria tables 26 store data about items that affect the color. For example, data on a particular substrate is included in the table of other criteria 26. The table of other criteria 26 also includes, for example, color strength data for many factors such as water, solvent, acid, base, temperature, humidity, abrasion, chipping, bending, light and ultraviolet radiation. An additional example of selection criteria includes the freezing and melting cycles and the strength of the laminate bond. In addition, these criteria may take the form of ISO standard performance factors, for example ISO 105 / AO5 - Gray Color Scale Ratio. There are also ISO coefficients for stain and solvent resistance and the like, all along with the numerical scale ,, [0043] The color format table 30 preferably contains data for a number of color representations (e.g., RGB, CMYK and CIE) used by different devices in System 2. The printing technique table 32 contains data for a number of printing methods, e.g. offset and concave printing. Other printing methods can affect the compositions that form colored inks suitable to create a particular color. The hardware device table 34 contains data for a number of hardware devices used in the development of the colored product, e.g. monitors, printers and scanners.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, each of the registers in the database table 26 - 34 is associated with a color register in the color library table 24. For example, in the color library table 24 there are a number of registers corresponding to a particular shade of blue. The table of other criteria 26 contains a number of substrates. The color library table preferably comprises a number of colored ink compositions that correspond to a particular shade of blue and a number of substrates included in other criteria 26. In addition, the printing technique table includes types of printing methods, e.g. offset or concave printing. The table of other criteria 26 also contains documents regarding the strength of blue color for many factors such as water, solvent, acid, base, temperature, humidity, abrasion, chipping, bending, light and ultraviolet radiation. By binding registers from a number of tables with one or several registers in the color library table 24,

-9System 2 provides a robust system and method of transferring project choices and developing a colored product. In addition, System 2 provides many options for users to find multiple compositions of color inks, to send to one or several specialists in the field of colored inks, for example, ink manufacturers.

[0045] A detailed description of the System 2 pages and their respective functions will be discussed with reference to Fig. 4.

[0046] According to the principles of the invention, System 2 preferably receives data on a colored product from a number of sources, including a color measuring device and user terminals 6. Accordingly, System 2 preferably receives a number of colored ink compositions to create a color and provides an additional method of choosing from colors, substrates and criteria to find a number of colored ink formulations to be sent to specialists developing a colored product.

[0047] The demand for colored products and services is due to the many types of non-business related business activities that have the need to produce colors. For example, companies dealing with consumer products, advertising, the production of promotional materials and interior design and environment require color services. Customers of color 36 products define color requirements for packaging products, such as food packaging. Customers of color products 36 give one or several pages additional details regarding the design parameters of the packaging, colors, substrates and printing processes. System 2 essentially enables simultaneous communication between related specialists for developing a colored product.

[0048] Multiple messaging occurs between the parties involved in the development. For example, printers / processors 42 cooperate with ink producers 44 to produce ink. The compositionists 40 calculate the respective color compositions that define the respective weights and color combinations in the pigment range to create a particular color, for example through related data in the color library table 24. Ink producers 44 also communicate with raw material suppliers, stuccoers, persons dealing with the division, matrix makers, engravers, etc. in the field of materials concerning specific parameters. Accordingly, the method of communicating this information according to the prior art is expensive and time-consuming.

Other examples of the present invention are available with reference to the method in which the user cooperates with the System 2. For example, when the designer 38 selects the desired color (e.g. navy blue), the System presents available substrates that will be suitable for the color. In addition, after Designer 38 selects the substrate, System 2 presents the available printing techniques that can produce the product in the right color. In an alternative embodiment, System 2 gives designer 38 many choices at the beginning of a colored product design and when selecting designer 38 (e.g. navy on a specific substrate).

[0050] Other material delivery specifications include details such as color, rheological properties, product strength, and residual chemical requirements. Complete ink samples are sent to the printer / processing person 42 and are further forwarded to several pages, including the color product customer 36, the designer 38, and / or persons involved in determining the composition 40 for approval.

[0051] In an embodiment of the present invention, the core processor 4 acts as a generic guard and monitors at least one content in transmission between the parties. For example, the designer 38 may choose the composition of the colored ink of the invention, and the person processing 42 may determine, for example for a specific business reason, that the composition of the colored ink chosen by the designer 38 is inadequate. The processing person 42 may replace one or more variables in the composition of the colored ink and proceed with the processing of the colored print. In this embodiment, the designer 38 may be unaware that the processing person has made a modification to the color ink composition and may be dissatisfied with the result of the colored print. Alternatively,

[0052] According to an embodiment of the invention, the core processor 4 recognizes when transmission between the respective sides shown in Fig. 4 may be problematic. Preferably, the core processor 4 notifies the parties of potential incompatibilities or the impossibility of producing a colored print or colored product prior to commencing production. For example, the local processor 4 stores a database that contains details of materials supported by the sites. For example, the core processor 4 preferably stores information to which the processing person 42 does not have access in the color ink range. If the designer 38 sends a composition of colored ink that the processing person 42 does not support, the local processor 4 preferably notifies the designer 38 of the same.

[0053] At this point, an example will be described of maintaining a database of colored ink compositions with reference to the scheme shown in Fig. 5. This example represents one possible sequence of events.

[0054] As shown in Fig. 5, a color sample is taken (step S100). A color sample can be received in various ways according to the present invention. For example, in accordance with the above, the visible spectrum of the color sample is read and data on the measured light values ​​of the absorbed tubes reflected at specific points of the spectrum are generated. Alternatively, there is access to the electronic palette file on the user terminal 6 and it is edited to include the new color. For example, an ASCII text file is opened in a text editor and a new entry is provided that identifies the appropriate RGB values ​​representing the new color. Then, the text file is saved, and the electronic palette, after accessing it, uses the newly added RGB values ​​to display the corresponding color.

[0055] In step S102, electronic color information is generated, e.g. RGB values, CMYK values, spectral data and the like. Next, the electronic color information is associated with the name (step S104). For example, the sea color is associated with alphanumeric values ​​that represent the corresponding RGB values ​​used to reflect the color on the computer screen 22. Next, the electronic color information and the associated name are stored in the electronic color library, for example on the core processor 4 (stage S106). Electronic

-11 color information is thus recoverable by displaying an electronic color palette that includes a visual representation and the associated name of the newly added color, sea. [0056] Before providing the compositions of colored inks, additional information is preferably provided to System 2. For example, in step S108, the substrate is identified and received. For example, a list of substrates is available for selecting a substrate for a given color. For example, graphic control, such as a drop-down list, displays wavy cardboard, aluminum and paper, and the user makes a choice, such as a wavy cardboard. In a preferred embodiment, additional criteria are available through the same or other graphic control that represents other criteria that may affect the composition of the ink, necessary to create a color. For example, rheological properties, strength of the product and residual chemical requirements that may affect the composition required to create the color may be available in the developed menu. In addition, many printing techniques that the user selects to identify a specific printing technique can be available through graphic control.

Upon receipt of the substrate or other criteria, in step S110 System 2 then receives the color ink composition adapted to create a color either on the selected substrate or corresponding to the criteria selected in step S108. As mentioned above, the composition of the ink can be determined by hand mixing of the dyes and the following visual or assisted by color confirmation instrumentation. Alternatively, the ink composition can be determined using the CCM program. The composition of the ink can be found in a palette of well-known good compositions regarding a given color. The composition can be developed and entered manually by a shadowing person or can be developed on a separate node on the network using the CCM program. Then, System 3 preferably associates the composition of the colored ink with the corresponding color (step S112).

[0058] After linking the color composition of the ink to the color, the System 2 preferably informs the user of another substrate or criteria to be associated with the selected color (step S114). In the event that the user wishes to associate another substrate or criteria with a suitable color, the process preferably loops to step S108 and a further substrate or criterion is provided. In the event that the user does not want to link another substrate or another criterion with the appropriate color, the process ends at the stage S116. Then, users can find the colors added to System 2 and can additionally identify specific substrates or other criteria to find the color composition of the ink that matches the selection.

[0059] Fig. 6 shows a network of actions related to finding a particular color ink composition and sending such a color to a color specialist, for example to a manufacturer of colored ink. Although the exemplary scheme in Figure 6 relates to the compositions of colored inks, the steps can be used in a similar manner to find a dye composition.

[0060] As shown in the steps of Fig. 6, the user of System 2 is presented a user interface that allows the user to identify a color to display ink compositions to produce a particular color (S200). In step S202, an electronic color palette is provided as part of the user interface (step S200) which displays a number of electronic color samples identifying the choice of colors available to the user. After the user identifies the color subject to production, selection is made, and System 2 finds information about the color that is connected to the selected color (step S204). Then, System 2 finds all the compositions of colored inks that are stored in the electronic color library, which are related to the color information,

[0061] After finding skiads of colored inks associated with the selected color, System 2 preferably presents the user with a selection of colored ink compositions that correspond to the selected color (step S208). Thereafter, the user selects one or more color ink compositions that represent the desired color ink composition associated with the selected color and correspond to, for example, a specific substrate or other criteria identified earlier (see scheme in Figure 5) (step S210). In an alternative embodiment, all of the compositions of colored inks may be sent to another page, e.g. an ink producer, who will then determine and use the composition to create the color. After the user has made his choice in step S210,

[0062] Thus, by following the above-described steps with reference to Fig. 6, the user identifies a particular color by means of an electronic color library and receives a plurality of colored ink compositions that are able to define an ink suitable to form a selected color.

[0063] Fig. 7 is an illustration of the interaction between the color library table 24 and the table of other criteria 26 to provide the user of the System 2 operator with a number of colored ink compositions. Although the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 relates to the compositions of colored inks, the invention is not limited thereto. According to the above description, the invention is also able to provide dye compositions. Looking further at, for example, illustrated in Fig. 7, to create a sea color, a number of compositions are provided, each of them corresponding to a given ground or other criteria. As shown in Fig. 7, Table 48 of the colored ink compositions shows compositions 1, 2 and 3 of colored inks that identify specific compositions of colored inks to form a selected color,

[0064] Fig. 8 shows the interaction between the tables identified in Fig. 3 and shows the sample interface provided to the user of the present invention. All the values ​​shown in Fig. 8 are merely illustrative and their purpose is not to reflect the actual values ​​necessary to create an ink suitable for a given color.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 8, the color palette 50 represents a plurality of user-selectable colors. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the user has selected a particular color (color I). By choosing color I, the user receives a number of compositions of color inks contained in the table 52 of the ink compositions to form a color. The values ​​shown represent the percentage of pigment and the actual weights of the pigment necessary to produce the color. In addition, three sets of values ​​are given for the substrate, corrugated cardboard, aluminum and paper. As shown in Figure 8, the percentages and weights of the pigment vary depending on the respective substrate. The user can select one tub of a larger number of colored ink formations, for transfer to one or more pages, for example, selecting the check box 53 of the graphic control. In the example shown in Fig. 8, the user chose a corrugated cardboard substrate by clicking the corresponding check box 53.

[0066] In addition, the color format table 54 identifies the corresponding RGB values ​​to produce a color in RGB format. As shown in Fig. 8, a graphic control is provided, e.g. a text field 56, for identifying a page for receiving electronically compositions of colored inks. For example, the user identifies the name of the ink producer and provides a name in the text box 56. In the example shown in fig. 8, the ink producer, the ABC Ink Manufacturer, has been identified.

Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that other graphic controls are also available to provide information such as items / ist boxes, drop-down lists and other tools that can be used to provide recipients of colored ink compositions to the recipients. Preferably, more than one recipient can be identified by graphical control 56, and multiple names can be provided in text field 56 to ensure that multiple pages receive the compositions of colored inks to form a color, e.g. color I. When the user is satisfied with entries entered in the text box 56, the user selects a graphic control, e.g., a submit button 58, to send the selected color ink compositions, e.g. via checkbox 53, to selected recipients.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a number of email addresses of the pages shown in fig 4 are recorded, and System 2 uses the stored addresses to send the colored ink compositions. For example, an "address book" is available to select names and corresponding e-mail addresses, of course, other types of notification techniques are also available, for example, a web page can be provided, and related pages, e.g. In an alternative embodiment, when a user uses the submit button 58, an electronic notification is automatically sent by fax and sent to the selected recipient.

[0068] At this point, additional functionality of the System 2 will be described as an additional example.

[0069] The designer 38 creates a computer-aided (CAD) drawing of office space and selects furniture and lining in a standard color. The selected paint color is selected by the designer 38 of electronic views to match or contrast the furniture. The color can be selected from the electronic palette of available paint colors and added to the CAD drawing. Designer 38 may wish to create a new color by manually adjusting it in System 2.

[0070] Still referring to the above example, a number of ink compositions are automatically provided to the designer 38 using the interface, e.g. shown in Fig. 8. The designer chooses the composition of the colored ink that corresponds to the substrate that the designer will use for specific furniture, and then sends the composition of the colored ink to the manufacturer of colored ink.

[0071] In principle, the same operational phases take place in System 2 if there is a need to design the interior, outfit, consumer product or piece. Replacements of production or reproduction samples and ink compositions between manufacturers, warehousing specialists, designers and printers are sent electronically for approval and approval.

[0072] The present invention extends beyond replacing spectral data with physical samples. Physical samples are characterized and saved in an electronic library to which all parties have access. A common basis for comparative and communication purposes is provided without the need for physical confirmation and testing.

[0073] The services provided by System 2 are preferably prepared in the form of a website where the user makes a selection and uses the available functions. Initially, the user accesses the website provided by the local processor 4, entering the URL corresponding to the web address of the website. After entering the website and entering the relevant data

-14securers (eg username and password), the user gets options to implement many of the above-described processes. The website is preferably designed to provide the user with appropriate screens for the level of authorization. For example, designers and customers of color products will have access to a color library and design software, and printers to specific warehouses. [0074] The present invention advantageously provides a comprehensive network solution that allows many participants in the production chain to send data on colored products and compositions of colored inks to each other, using a web browser interface. A number of users receive the same first-hand messages and essentially immediately. Also,

[0075] System users can make their own requests in an independent manner, and data communication is automatically started without the intervention of the system provider's staff. The invention thus allows manufacturers, designers and printers to work at maximum efficiency, generating high commercial turnover, achieving a high level of customer satisfaction and a successful return on investment.

[0076] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize the possibility of introducing a variety of changes and modifications. The invention is thus not limited to the description provided herein.