The Selection of Materials to Match Human Sensory Adaptation and Aesthetic Expectation in Industrial Design

Abstract

It is significantly important to integrate various sources of knowledge and information for selecting and combining materials in today's industrial design practice and education. Compared to the engineering and technical properties of materials, the information about the aesthetic attributes and sensory or perceptual features of materials is equally important but has been less explored. Based on theoretical and experimental research, this article addresses the fundamental contents of material aesthetics and sensory perception and the methodology in approaching the research in this area. A material aesthetics database resulting from the author's research activities with a focus on texture is also introduced. Examples are given to showcase how the research results are applied as a reference for new product development in industry, and how the research results are combined with other resources in facilitating materials teaching in industrial design education.