Definition of haptic coatings:
Haptic coatings are used to create a specific touch sensation on the surface of a product or other object. They alter our perception of the object and are normally used to evoke a positive emotional response.
What are haptics coatings?
A well-designed product is a product focuses on meeting a customer’s requirements in terms of physical and chemical performance. But of course, touch is one of the most important ways in which we experience the world. So, it’s usually a requirement for all customers.
Haptics is the unique feeling that a user experiences when they touch a particular object. For instance, it may be smooth, rough, glassy, or sandy. Haptics has the potential to greatly enhance the user experience of a product. It should, therefore, be a key part of the design process.
Why are haptics important?
Designers incorporate all sorts of textures and sensations into their products. These can affect the users experience just as much as appearance.
Different types of haptics are suitable for different applications, depending on the desired effect and the intended audience. Luxury shoeboxes, for instance, would have different haptics from natural-feeling bags of artisan coffee.
The latest haptic coating technology enables designers to create multisensory product experiences that reflect a brand’s identity. This helps brands to stand out by raising the customer experience to new heights.
What are the challenges associated with haptics?
While haptic performance qualities are important, manufacturers must also consider the mechanical properties of their products. This sometimes results in trade-offs. For instance, a product’s haptic appeal is limited to ensure that it retains its performance.
Manufacturers also need to balance the haptic profile of products with their environmental impact. Finding a balance between performance, aesthetics, and environmental impact is the main challenge for haptics researchers in the coming years.
At Stahl, we’ve developed a solution that meets all three requirements: Sensora®.
What is Sensora® and what can it do?
Sensora® is Stahl’s portfolio of haptic packaging coatings.
These come in five different sensory profiles:
Velvety
Rubbery
Silky
Dry
Textured
Each one is carefully designed to suit a wide range of packaging applications.
Packaging is the first point of contact between a customer and your product. It helps to create an immediate connection between physical touch and emotional feeling. This enhances the consumer experience of the brand and improves brand perception. Sensora® gives designers a greater ability to differentiate their products and is suitable for different substrates, including both BOPP and PET.
Sensora® is based on Stahl’s PolyMatte® technology. This means that all the coatings in the range meet the highest standards of scratch resistance, abrasion resistance, and flexibility. And like other products using PolyMatte® technology, Sensora® is also available as a bio-based solution.
What does the future hold for haptic coatings?
The future of haptic coatings really depends on the region. In the US for example there is a need for organic and velvet products. In Europe, consumers are looking for packaging with a more natural and paper feel to it. Sustainability also plays a major role in the future of haptic coatings, as the market searches for coatings made from bio-based raw materials.
Looking the perfect touch to your packaging?
Discover the Sensora® range:
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