A great deal of study has been applied to the way we humans interact with machines, but now researchers are taking this a step further by quantifying the sensual feel of touch. This relatively new science is called "haptics" and is being used by Ford to develop a floor shifter for the new Edge crossover, due out next fall. Yifan Chen, technical leader, Perceptual Design, said "our major work has been on the design and feel for climate control switches on the Fusion/Milan/Zephyr midsize sedans. We took the results and are applying it to improving how the shifter feels to the driver." I've noticed that other automakers are using soft-touch controls and, indeed, a high-end clock radio that I just purchased, the SongBook, has dispensed with hard-edge feel on both case and switches. Hmmm... imagine if "sensual feel of touch" had been measured by past lovers. How would you rate?