This is the first of three posts researching different elements of a shaver for Damian:
- Shaving head
- Stimulation
- Device shape
The goal of this experiment was to assess the sensations of nine different materials on the cheeks and throat and the emotions and mind states this evoked. The materials will be used as a “shaving head” in a fake shaving ritual. The shaver will be placed on the dressing table. The aim of this ritual is to increase intimacy with and relaxation in the body through movement and tactile stimuli. The materials were tested by moving the sample over the face and neck.

The textures range from soft and smooth (neopreen, fleece) to more rough and firm (foam, velvet). The soft and smooth textures create a sense of relaxation and abandonment, the softer, the more relaxing. Smoothness of the material creates the impression of a smoother skin which evokes positive emotions [e, h]. The rougher and firmer materials evoke a sense of cleansing and promote alertness [d, i].
An unexpected addition to the tactile sensations was the sound the textures made when they moved over the skin. The sound has to match the sensations in terms of intensity. A fitting match strengthens the experience[b, e, i]. Louder sounds distract from the subtle tactile sensations [d].
The colour or appearance of the material also plays a role in how the texture is experienced. Light colours promise softness, if this doesn’t match the tactile experience this is confusing [a]. Materials like teddy [g] or foam [c] are associated with bathing and cleaning and are familiar.
Both the alert, cleansing and the relaxing experience can contribute to the goals of intimacy and relaxation. A test can be done in which the surfaces are swapped and used in succession to get the most of both experiences. In the final prototype the intention is to use either rotation or vibration as an extra stimulus. Tests will have to show which type of stimulation will contribute most to the goals.
Leave a comment