The emtec “TSA” (Tactile Sensation Analyzer) represents a significant advancement in haptic testing technology. Based on a measuring principle that simulates the human fingertips, the portable lab device evaluates the hand-feel of fabrics with unprecedented accuracy and efficiency, measuring softness, smoothness, and stretch and recovery parameters within two minutes. Comparisons to results with traditional hand-panel testing methods using “touch experts” reveal a correlation of up to 100%. The “TSA´s” capabilities have been further enhanced with additional features, including:

• Surface thermal conductivity and thermal insulation measurement: The “TSA” reliably measures according to the company a product´s thermal properties, delivering objective data on how warm or cool a material feels to the touch.

• Improved Design for Measuring Springback Behavior: the updated “TSA” utilizes an improved method for measuring springback behavior, accurately capturing a fabric's ability to return to its original shape after deformation. This allows manufacturers to evaluate the elasticity and resilience of textiles, ensuring they meet specific performance standards.

• Integrated high-resolution camera: a built-in camera captures detailed images of fabric structure, weave, and other visual embellishments, facilitating optical analysis.

• Cloud-based virtual haptic library: developed in collaboration with Black Swan Textiles, the “Virtual Haptic Library” is an online database that digitizes and categorizes “TSA” sample data, enabling seamless collaboration and quality control regardless of location.

The redesigned “TSA” helps answer the question: What makes one product more desirable than another? Is it softness, elasticity, cushioning, or a specific blend of these attributes? “With the improvements to the established ‘TSA’, manufacturers have even more tools at hand to define and enhance their product’s appeal,” explains Alexander Gruener, Global Business Development Manager at emtec.

Furthermore, visitors to Hightex 2024 are invited to stop by the emtec booth and speak with emtec Area Sales Manager Daniel Ohndorf and Cem Dipçin from Turkish partner company Labtex to learn more about the updated “TSA´s” functionalities and application possibilities.