Controlled Customization and Reproduction of Surface Appearance Through Microtexturing – APPEARANCE_ON_DEMAND

APPEARANCE_ON_DEMAND seeks to revolutionize surface design and manufacturing by enabling the precise customization and reproduction of material appearances through innovative microtexturing techniques. The project is dedicated to developing an optimized production process capable of creating microtextured surfaces with specifically defined visual properties, characterized by their Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF). This pioneering approach offers significant applications in luxury design, decorative architecture, and 3D printing.
At the heart of the project lies a flexible methodology applicable to a wide array of materials and microtexturing systems, with a particular emphasis on relief printing technology. By integrating advanced numerical simulations and artificial intelligence (AI), the project minimizes the necessity for multiple physical prototypes, thereby streamlining the production process and ensuring precise adjustments to surface design. This predictive methodology guarantees that the desired visual effects are achieved efficiently and effectively.
The project's strength is further enhanced by its multidisciplinary consortium, which includes leading experts in surface optics, BRDF measurement, AI, and relief printing technologies. Together, they will create a comprehensive process that encompasses virtual microtopography generation, relief printing fabrication, and detailed BRDF analysis.
By minimizing waste generated during production and optimizing both material and energy resources, APPEARANCE_ON_DEMAND makes a substantial contribution to sustainable manufacturing practices. This project tackles critical challenges in the future of manufacturing, providing innovative solutions that seamlessly integrate cutting-edge technology with practical industrial applications, thereby paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable manufacturing landscape.