Objective hand feel data for development and qc

From August 4-6, 2026, Emtec Electronic GmbH will exhibit at techtextil north america. Together with textile consultant Harrie Schoots, Global Business Development Manager Alexander Gruener will present the award-winning tsa tactile sensation analyzer in combination with the cloud-based virtual haptic library.

The focus is on translating the subjective sensation of touching a fabric into objective data that can be compared across the global textile supply chain. According to emtec, the instrument evaluates haptic quality by measuring key parameters such as surface softness, surface smoothness, and stretch & recovery. Special algorithms are used to calculate the hand feel (hf) value. The underlying mathematical model is described as enabling a correlation with human expectation of up to almost 100 percent.

Bring samples, digitize results

Visitors are encouraged to bring round fabric samples of approximately 100 cm2 for hands-on testing. Measurement data, including the automatically calculated hf value, can be digitized in the virtual haptic library. emtec describes the online platform as a digital marketplace that enables real-time quality assurance across the global textile industry.

Beyond the three haptic parameters, the tsa can also measure air permeability, thermo haptic properties and thermal insulation. Optional modules for compressibility, crumple and drape expand the system’s capabilities.

Talk on digital approval and qc

In addition to live demonstrations, Harrie Schoots will give a presentation at 1 pm on Tuesday, August 4, titled “Realizing Fabric Softness and Smoothness as Part of Your QC program - Digital Approval of Fabric Handfeel Today”. The talk will address tools for retailers, buyers and suppliers, including tolerance windows for haptic values and fabric approval before shipment using digital hand feel specifications.