This paper explores how morphing metamaterials can be engineered to create dynamic, shape-changing experiences while evaluating their emotional impact to inform innovative human–computer interaction designs.

What is it?


We introduce a novel approach to evaluate how the design properties of morphing metamaterial influence shape-changing experiences. We leverage parametric design to create cutting patterns that change the DeAnsity and Geometry material properties. Using laser-cutting, we apply the patterns to a non-stretchable woven textile, resulting in a stretchable metamaterial that we actuate using an electromagnetic coil. This systematic design approach leads to programmatic control over the material movement, making it suitable for controlled evaluation of perceived experience. In a 2×2 mixed-method study, we assess how the metamaterial’s Density and Geometry properties impact the observed experience. Our findings indicate that such changes significantly and independently affect participants’ perceived emotions, mood, associations, and preferences. ‏