Analysis of the Sensorial Characteristics of Materials for Inclusive Design

Abstract

In recent years the study of materials has extended from technical-engineering characteristics to sensory and perceptual ones. The material of an interface, in fact, also assumes a communicative value as well as contributing to improving or promoting the interaction of individuals with products. This also considering the different levels of reaction to sensory stimuli that individuals can have, and therefore the different perceptions, also in relation to their socio-cultural experience. Here we present the results of an educational laboratory which had as its theme the analysis of materials for industrial design and their sensorial characteristics, with particular attention to inclusive design. In particular, the analysis process initially envisages a reading of the characteristics of the materials through the students’ descriptive skills related to the visual, tactile and acoustic dimensions, with reference to their use in the conformation of a product. Subsequently, the objects analyzed are also broken down into their main parts, while an original graphic summary rendering allows to evaluate the relative weight of each sensory aspect in the perception of the products, also in relation to human diversity.