MagPixel: Modular Toolkit for Designing Interactive Magnetic Shape Displays.

This paper introduces MagPixel, a modular toolkit for democratizing the design and fabrication of interactive shape displays using magnetic soft materials in the realm of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). Known for their instant responsiveness and flexibility, magnetic soft materials have been used in material science and soft robotics but remain under-explored in HCI. MagPixel addresses this gap by offering a user-friendly, cost-effective solution for creating morphing tangible interfaces actuated by external magnetic fields. Existing methods of fabricating magnetic soft interfaces are complex, requiring multiple specialized tools and skills for casting, magnetization, and assembly. By simplifying fabrication into straightforward, standardized procedures, MagPixel eliminates the need for proprietary materials and extensive resources. The toolkit provides DIY enthusiasts in the maker community with the means to effortlessly create and modify interactive magnetic soft displays, MagPixel paves the way for broader experimentation and innovation in interactive design and HCI.