Embedding perception: how changes in manufacturing can influence visual and tactile preferences

This paper explores how small-but–detectable changes in manufacturing protocol can alter interactive preferences for users. Building on a number of previous studies by the authors, this paper focuses on the manufacture of a set of emotionally attuned pattern-based surface texture designs utilising computer-numerically controlled (CNC) machining. An experiment is subsequently reported that explores how the variations in rastering approach can affect the visual and tactile qualities of the textures in relation to psychological preferences. The implications with respect to human-centred design (HCD) and manufacturing protocol more broadly are subsequently discussed with recommendations for a reconfiguration of computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) approaches.