Research Article

RAG-Based Platform for the Semantic Translation and Intelligent Design of Traditional Chinese Colors

Yilan ZhaoDonghua University Miao WangChina Fashion & Color Association Xinyuan ChenDonghua University Yi DingDonghua University* Zhiwei XuDonghua University

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

The traditional Chinese color system contains unique cultural concepts and philosophical expressions, and has important application value in contemporary design. However, its semantic ambiguity and insufficient retrieval efficiency limit its practical use. In order to cope with this challenge, this study proposes a semantic color conversion framework based on retrieval enhancement generation (RAG) algorithm. By constructing a five-dimensional data model suitable for multi-source unstructured data and combining it with RAG technology, an intelligent design platform based on WeChat applet is developed. With the help of high-dimensional semantic embedding and cosine similarity calculation, the system can accurately retrieve color entries related to cultural context, and realize the efficient transformation from natural language to traditional Chinese color scheme, thus providing an extensible solution for the transformation of traditional color semantics into practical design applications. The method proposed in this study also provides an extensible reference path for the construction of other cultural and knowledge-based information systems.

Keywords: traditional Chinese colors; Retrieval-Augmented Generation; intelligent design platform
Published: April 28, 2026
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2026.HT33073
Volume: CHR Vol.106
pp. 147-153
Download PDF

References

  1. Zhang Y. (2005). An Aesthetic Exploration of Traditional Chinese Colors. Journal of Sichuan Institute of Education, (05), 89-90+93.
  2. Ma C. (2023). Analysis of the Connotation of Chinese Traditional Color Concept. Color, (10), 122-124.
  3. Wang Y. (2012). An Exploration of the Theory of the Five Elements and Five Colors in Relation to Traditional Chinese Color Concepts. Journal of Art Education Research, (21), 31-33.
  4. Bogushevskaya, V. (2023). Chinese Color Language. In Encyclopedia of Color Science and Technology (pp. 132-147). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
  5. Ke, Y.(2021). Research on the Application of Traditional Chinese Colors in Modern Clothing Design. Light and Textile Industry and Technology, 50(12), 103-105.
  6. Dong Y., Tong Q (2024). Research on the Application of Traditional Color Concepts in Modern Packaging Design. Screen Printing Industry, 2024(8), 42-44.
  7. Xinyu, H., Lei, Z., Bingbing, C., Menghan L. (2024). The Advanced Path of Research on Digital Display Empowered by AIGC Technology for Intangible Cultural Heritage. Journal of Tourism Management, 1(5), 45–50. https: //doi.org/10.62517/jtm.202413508
  8. Zhou Y., Zhang X. (2011). On the digital design using the Chinese traditional folk-custom color culture research [J]. Applied Mechanics and Materials, 2011, 63–64: 607–610.
  9. Valev, T. (2023). TRADITIONAL CHINESE COLOUR SYMBOLISM – MEANING AND UNDERSTANDING. Diplomatic, Economic and Cultural Relations between China and Central and Eastern European Countries, 8, 475–494. https: //doi.org/10.62635/vwjc-0h90
  10. Guo, L., Guo Y (2025). A Brief History of Chinese Colors. Chongqing University Press.
  11. Hu, G., Chen, G., Xu, L. (2024). Research Report on the Quantitative System and Hierarchical Structure of Traditional Chinese Color Names from Color Names to Color Values. New Art, 2024, 45(05), 163-173.
  12. Guo H, Li, J. (2020). Traditional Chinese Colors - The color Aesthetics in the Forbidden City. Contemporary artist.
  13. Xiao, Q., Wu, X. (2021). The naming method of traditional Chinese colors. Fine Arts Literature, 2021(10), 2-5.DOI: 10.16585/j.cnki.mswx.2021.10.001.
  14. PENG B, ZHU Y, LIU Y, et al. (2024). Graph retrieval-augmented generation: A survey. arXiv preprint arXiv, 2408.08921, 2024.
  15. Wang, X., Li Y, Ma, F., et al. (2026). Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG): A Survey of Methods and Applications. Computer Science, 1-28. https: //link.cnki.net/urlid/50.1075.tp.20260317.1842.019.
  16. Hong, T. (2024). The Colors of the Nation: An Illustrated Guide to Traditional Chinese Color Combination. Posts and Telecom Press.