The choice of materials and manufacturing processes is an important part in product design process, which directly impact on the realization of product function and the designers' intent. Based on systematic studies of material selection and application, this paper proposed the concept of material recommendation virtual laboratory, and accordingly developed a web-based platform. Using database technology, the feature of existing products, material's Kansei images and material recommendation rules were organized together in the virtual laboratory, which is intuitive and simple as well as easy to grasp and use. The database contains the material properties, processing and analysis of product material image. In this network laboratory, the students and junior designers can get the knowledge of material kansei image, physical and chemical properties, processing technology, etc, learn how to use materials for product development through imitating. Furthermore, the lab can provide material recommendation for designers according to requirements, which not only help the designers choose materials betterly, but also simplify the design process and save design time.
