We see digital fabric evaluation becoming a new global standard
In an industry where the ‘feel’ of a product often makes or breaks a sale, turning subjective impressions into objective data is a critical competitive advantage. With the TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer and Virtual Haptic Library, emtec Electronic offers a scalable solution that transforms how the global textile supply chain communicates, develops, and delivers quality. In a conversation with Fibre2Fashion, Alexander Gruener from emtec Electronic GmbH, discusses how do objective quantification and digital utilisation of a fabric’ hand feel lead to cost and time savings in the fabric development and production.
Could you begin by giving us a brief overview of the TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer and the role it plays in evaluating fabric hand feel?
The TSA Tactile Sensation Analyzer is a state-of-the-art solution designed to transform the traditionally subjective evaluation of fabric hand feel and wearing comfort into objective, quantifiable metrics. It captures key physical properties such as surface softness, surface smoothness, compressibility, thermal behaviour, stretch, and friction—delivering a comprehensive and consistent tactile profile for each fabric sample.
Traditionally, assessing fabric hand feel has been highly subjective. How does TSA enable objective and quantifiable analysis?
Fabric hand feel has long been defined by individual perception, making communication along the textile supply chain challenging. The TSA solves this by providing standardised, reproducible data—enabling professionals to define, compare, and communicate tactile qualities with precision and reliability.
How does digital hand-feel data contribute to reducing development cycles for textile manufacturers and brands?
By digitising tactile data and integrating it with our cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library, textile developers can identify, compare, and select materials faster and more accurately. This approach reduces sample shipping, development iterations, and approval delays—cutting typical development timelines from 20 weeks to as little as two.
Can you share specific ways in which the TSA helps textile companies cut costs—both in R&D and production?
The reduction in physical sample rounds, courier costs, and wasted material leads to immediate savings. For instance, traditional lab dip submittals may cost $100 per round. With TSA, much of that is replaced by digital comparison, improving efficiency in R&D, sourcing, and production workflows.
From a business development perspective, what kind of return on investment (ROI) can manufacturers expect by integrating TSA into their process?
The return on investment is both rapid and ongoing. Manufacturers benefit from faster product launches, fewer miscommunications, and stronger quality control. For many of our clients, the TSA pays for itself in a matter of months while providing long-term operational advantages.
Could you elaborate on how TSA supports communication between fibre suppliers, fabric producers, and brands to align expectations on fabric quality?
The TSA establishes a common language for tactile expectations. Fibre suppliers, mills, and brands can align more easily using digital hand-feel profiles. The cloud-based Virtual Haptic Library supports this collaboration globally, reducing errors caused by perception, language, or geographic barriers.
In what way does TSA contribute towards sustainable textile production practices?
By replacing physical samples with digital data, TSA reduces shipping and sample waste—two significant contributors to environmental impact. Fewer rejected samples also mean more efficient use of resources, supporting sustainability goals across the supply chain.
Are there examples or case studies where TSA helped resolve quality or performance inconsistencies that would otherwise be difficult to detect?
Absolutely. In one case, a customer detected subtle hand-feel deviations between batches that were hardly noticeable by touch but were critical to brand consistency. TSA made these discrepancies visible and traceable— enabling corrective action early in the process.
How does the TSA align with the increasing trend towards digitalisation and automation in textile production?
The TSA is a central component of digitally integrated textile development. It complements PLM systems, supports automation, and provides data for AI-based material selection. It is an enabler of the smart, data-driven textile production that Fibre2Fashion readers are increasingly pursuing.
What challenges do manufacturers typically face when first adopting the TSA, and how does emtec support them during this transition?
Most challenges relate to initial familiarisation and data interpretation. emtec supports clients through onboarding, training, and integration assistance—ensuring they get measurable value from the start.
Can the TSA be used across all types of fabrics and finishes? Are there any limitations?
Yes, the TSA is compatible with nearly all textiles—woven, knitted, nonwovens, technical fabrics. In some niche cases, minor adjustments are required, and our team provides support to optimise results.
How does the TSA tool integrate with other textile testing equipment or software systems for a seamless workflow?
The TSA outputs can be integrated into PLM, ERP, and QMS platforms. It complements traditional performance testing by adding a tactile dimension, enabling a full picture of both physical and perceptual fabric performance.
How is the TSA being used in regions with highly competitive textile markets such as South Asia or Southeast Asia?
In regions like Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India, the TSA is increasingly noticed to meet global buyer expectations. Manufacturers see it as a strategic tool to increase product consistency, reduce waste, and differentiate in fast-moving, cost-sensitive markets.
What recent innovations or upgrades has emtec introduced to the TSA to enhance its functionality or user-friendliness?
We have enhanced usability, measurement speed, and cloud integration. Our latest updates include improved user interfaces, data visualisation, and faster testing cycles—all reflecting 30 years of innovation as emtec celebrates its anniversary this year.
Finally, what is your outlook on the future of digital fabric evaluation, and how do you see emtec shaping this space over the next five years?
We see digital fabric evaluation becoming a new global standard— enabling faster, smarter, and more sustainable development. At emtec Electronic GmbH, we will continue to lead this space through innovation, partnerships, and an expanding digital ecosystem for tactile data. As global sourcing strategies and sustainability targets reshape the textile landscape, tools like the TSA offer manufacturers a path towards smarter, leaner, and more transparent operations—combining technical precision with digital agility.
