Saxion's Industrial Design research group offers companies knowledge and practice-oriented research for the development of innovative products and services. At us, technological possibilities are integrated to answer people's needs.
The world is constantly changing, giving rise to new social and personal questions. At the same time, a great variety of new technologies are becoming accessible. How does one use this to design meaningful and socially relevant products?
With our team of researchers, designers and teachers, we work together with companies and students from various disciplines on practice-oriented research. In this way we create relevant applicable knowledge, sustainable solutions and smart designs.
Pioneering user-centered solutions through different ways of thinking and new technologies.
User-centered design
How does one design products (and services) in such a way that they meet the real needs and perceptions of the users? Within the research line "User-centered design" we investigate different challenging product design cases with diverse target groups. We always involve the (end) users and other stakeholders in the design process already at an early stage and further develop concepts and ideas together. Our project portfolio includes working with people from various socio-demographic backgrounds such as: elderly, professional and informal caregivers, breast cancer survivors, painters, students of PO, etc.
Materials and technologies in design
New materials and technologies are becoming accessible at a rapid pace. But how does one develop innovative products with them? The research line "Materials and technologies in design" focuses on gaining knowledge and experience in the fields of innovative materials and technologies. The “know-how” obtained in the process is not only improving the quality of the solutions we develop but is also shared with students and businesses. While working in a project-based dynamic, we translate the knowledge and experience into specific applications, product developments and innovative concepts. For the last several years, our focus has been on digital technologies such as 3D printing (plastic, but also metal and concrete) and smart technologies as well as functional surfaces and joining processes.
Sustainability in design
How do you contribute to a sustainable society with product development and innovation? The Industrial Design research group focuses on three steps of the Lansink Ladder: minimization (smaller ecological footprint due to longer lifespan and less use of raw materials), re-use and recycling. Reducing energy consumption also plays a role: energy-efficient products or by influencing behavior.
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Team

Arie Paul van den Beukel
Lector Industrial Design

Jos Thalen, PhD
Researcher

Ing. Karin Voortman-Overbeek
Researcher

Paul Groneveld , BEng, MEd
Lecturer/ researcher

Ir. Ernst-Jan Goedvolk
Lecturer/ researcher

Erik Goselink
Researcher

Ivo Vrooijink
Project leader/ researcher

Ir. Wouter Weijermars
Researcher

Iman Hadzivalcheva
Researcher

Ir. Anne Pasman
Researcher

Ir. Lieke Middel
Teacher/ researcher

Jolande Hellenkamp
Project supporter