Computer graphic tools for automotive paint engineering

Abstract

Recent developments in computer graphics software and hardware have made it possible to write computer graphics programs that can be used to solve automotive paint engineering problems. New surface reflection models have been created for simulating the appearance of automotive paint, and the hardware available today on graphics cards allows these reflection models to be evaluated in real-time. Three interactive computer graphic programs have been written that demonstrate the potential of using the new software and hardware to find answers to engineering problems involving automotive surface coatings. The first program allows the color appearance of new metallic and pearlescent automotive paints to be designed, the second application demonstrates how video projectors can be used to make an object appear as if it has been covered with automotive paint, and the third program is a virtual reality simulation of spraying automotive paint onto a surface. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2009.