I need to test the tactile-experience of different Materials

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TakeOver
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25 Jan 2017, 9:42 am

I'm having someone make something for me. I wanted to know the best way I could test a whole bunch of different materials with different friction, texture and tactility.

Where can I get a load of samples to test? I may have to reach out to different sources and purchase the different materials.



BTDT
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25 Jan 2017, 11:19 am

You could visit a craft store like Jo Anns or Michaels. Those are the two most common stores where I live.



TakeOver
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25 Jan 2017, 12:44 pm

The type of material I'm looking for would definitely not come from there. I'm trying to create a new product entirely. I'm really trying to connect with a materials scientist that can help me find out where I can get some prototypable samples from.



Dear_one
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02 Feb 2017, 2:49 am

TakeOver wrote:
The type of material I'm looking for would definitely not come from there. I'm trying to create a new product entirely. I'm really trying to connect with a materials scientist that can help me find out where I can get some prototypable samples from.


You can find a great many things in a big secondhand store. Manufacturers often provide samples if they think you have credibility as a possible manufacturer, or if you spend time with a salesperson on any pretext.

I know a great deal about materials, but accurate tactile descriptions are hard to find. In fabrics, they talk of "drape" and "hand." You may be seeking a specific coefficient of friction, a variable rate of resilience, a rate of heat transfer, a surface texture or various other qualities. You will also have to consider structural properties to make your product durable. Can you be any more specific? PM me if necessary. I have too many product ideas to bother stealing yours.