Use a simplified three-coordinate colour exercise. The reference is (L=51, a=11, b=19); the sample is (L=55, a=16, b=19). Define squared distance D²=(ΔL)²+(Δa)²+(Δb)². The supplied acceptance rule is D² ≤ 18; no claim is made that this replaces an industry colour-difference standard or viewing test.
Calculate the amount by which squared distance exceeds the supplied limit. Keep intermediate values unrounded; round the final result to four decimal places if necessary.