Baromorph as shape changing second skin for HCI

This project is at the crossroad of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and programmable soft materials, with a connection to the world of interactive arts. Its objective is to enrich user experience with the sense of touch through new tactile shape-changing interfaces, both for enabling new interactions and conveying emotions. The project relies on the SecondSkin concept, which is the idea that users and objects can wear a skin-like input/output device. This second skin will be made by augmenting a new kind of bio-inspired shape-morphing materials called baromorphs that were recently introduced by one of the partners. We will work on improving these materials and combining them with other technologies to develop novel adaptive/adaptable user interfaces and touch devices for conveying emotions. A demonstrator will illustrate these novel interaction capabilities and artistic productions will further investigate SecondSkin potentialities. The results will be widely spread toward scientific and artistic communities and the general public through DIY kits and two art exhibitions.