How can you automatically generate N unique and visually distinct colors?

How can you automatically generate N unique colors?

Existing methods for automatically selecting distinct colors often fail to produce visually distinct colors, especially when N is large. This question explores alternative approaches.

One approach is to define a piecewise linear function on the RGB cube. This allows for the generation of a progressive scale of colors, but the colors can become similar as N increases. Another approach involves evenly subdividing the RGB cube into a lattice and drawing points. However, this method can be computationally expensive.

More optimal solutions have been developed in academia. For arbitrary N, consider:

• Colour displays for categorical images
• A WEB SERVICE TO PERSONALISE MAP COLOURING
• An Algorithm for the Selection of High-Contrast Color Sets
• High-contrast sets of colors

For finite and relatively small N, consult:

• A Colour Alphabet and the Limits of Colour Coding

Predefined color lists include:

• Boynton's list of 11 colors
• Kelly's 22 colors of maximum contrast
• Color lists by MIT student

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