Industrial Design

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.

FabLab: learn, make, innovate!

Saxion FabLab Enschede is a high-tech public workplace where everyone has the opportunity to realize his or her idea by THEMSELVES via modern digital means of production. From companies to students, product developers, young entrepreneurs, artists and individuals: all concepts can be made tangible!

3D metal printing lab

Saxion is the first university of applied sciences to have a 3D metal printer as the connecting technology between research and education.

3D concrete printing lab

Within this lab, research group Industrial Design, together with regional partners, is developing a 3D concrete printer and various innovative applications.

Surface Lab

In the Surface Lab you can work with various techniques to apply a functional surface to your own product or prototype.

Observation and Design thinking lab

Facilities for conducting user research are available in the observation studio of research group Industrial Design. There are various cameras, recording equipment, beamer and mobile white board.