Colors on Parade is Awarded Two New Technology Patents
28 January 1999
Colors on Parade is Awarded Two New Technology Patents
ATLANTA--(AutomotiveWire)--Jan. 27, 1999--Colors on Parade, the leader in on-site automotive restoration, was recently awarded two new patents by the U.S. Patent Office. Colors on Parade's new patents are for a mobile spraybooth workstation and a method of spot blending paint.
These new developments highlight Colors on Parade's commitment to improving its technology and its place as the technology leader in the industry.
Invented by Robert Lowery, founder of Colors on Parade, the mobile spraybooth workstation is best described as a body shop on wheels. Designed to allow Colors on Parade technicians to repaint cars in all types of weather, the mobile workstation is a trailer that vehicles can drive into consisting of expandable rooms for extra workspace.
"It's completely self-contained, and mobile. That's what makes it unique," says Lowery.
Taking six months to build, the workstation is unlike anything else in the automotive industry. Because it is easier to match paint color in the daytime, the station has a daylight correct lighting system. In order to rapid dry repainted cars, the mobile workstation also has infrared curing lights.
The workstation also includes a fresh air system, a ventilation system for safety and a self-contained fire suppression system, meeting all regulations of the EPA, NFPA and OSHA. The unit also comes equipped with an onboard power generator, and all functions can be operated by remote control.
Already patented in Europe, the method of blending paint and spot painting was developed by Tom Kronenwetter. This method of spot blending allows Colors on Parade technicians to repair key scratches and other minor scrapes without repainting the entire car. By developing a first and second paint component, the technician can match a car's existing color. By using a clear coat, technicians can match a car's colors and factory finish.
This unique process allows for the refinishing of cars in an outdoor environment rather than a body shop. While complying with the EPA, this process reduces the time of refinishing a car from six hours, to less than two, according to Kronenwetter.
Lowery, who founded Colors on Parade in 1988, was awarded the 1998 Franchise of the Year, Entrepreneur Success Award, by the South Carolina U.S. Small Business Administration.
Kronenwetter, vice president of technical development and training for Colors on Parade, has assigned his patent to Total Car Franchising Corporation. Kronenwetter has been with Colors on Parade since 1993.
Total Car Franchising Corporation is the national franchisor of 300 Colors on Parade franchises nationwide. Colors on Parade franchisees offer additional services such as interior restoration, windshield repair and paint-free dent removal. Working from mobile van laboratories, Colors on Parade technicians do body shop quality work on-site for car dealerships.
Recently ranked as one of the Top 10 low-cost franchises by Success, Atlanta-based Colors on Parade opened a new research and development facility this past May in Conway, S.C., located seven miles outside of Myrtle Beach.
For more information on a Colors on Parade franchise, call 1-800-7-COLORS or visit us on the web at www.colorsfranchise.com.
NOTE TO EDITORS: A digital pict of tiff can be emailed upon request. Call Davina Brewer at 800/929-3363 or 770/368-4112, ext. 231; or email at coppr@mindspring.com.