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Researcher

Jelle Saldien

  • Research Expertise  (University of Antwerp):The research in Interaction Design and Smart Products, powered by an expertise in facilitating a Sandbox Culture and "technology brokering", represents a holistic approach to understanding and improving the interactions between humans and technology. This research focuses on both the physical and digital aspects of future products as they are perceived by users. Central to this approach is the development of new prototyping methods and interfaces in Product Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and Human-Robot Interaction (HRI). The emphasis is on creating engaging user experiences, particularly for smart products within a circular economy, where sustainability and adaptability are key. The Sandbox Culture within this research area strongly connects with the startup culture and Lean Innovation principles. This culture promotes an environment of experimentation and rapid iteration, characteristic of startups and lean innovation processes. The idea of 'fail fast, learn fast', prevalent in startups, is also embraced in the Sandbox Culture. This metaphorical sandbox allows for risk-free exploration, encouraging innovation and creative thinking. In this approach, technology brokering plays a significant role, identifying problems and seeking creative technological solutions. This aligns with the Lean Startup methodology, where minimum viable products (MVPs) are developed to quickly learn from user feedback and make iterative improvements. The research focuses on early stakeholder involvement to ensure product innovation meets real-world needs and expectations. Information interface design is another key area, focusing on making information accessible and understandable to users. Furthermore, the design of open modular systems for smart products in a circular economy is explored, aiming at enhancing product flexibility, customization, and sustainability. This comprehensive research approach aims to not only advance the field of interaction design and smart product development but also to foster an environment of continuous learning and innovation.
  • Keywords  (University of Antwerp):INTERNET OF THINGS, INTERACTION DESIGN, CIRCULAR ECONOMY, Other technical sciences
  • Keywords  (Ghent University):interaction design, human robot interaction, user experience design, internet of things, human computer interaction
  • Disciplines  (Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre):Display technology, Antennas and propagation, Automation and control systems, Analogue, RF and mixed signal integrated circuits, Neuromorphic computing, Audio and speech processing, Environmental safety and health of nanotechnology, Battery technology, Biomaterials, Ceramic matrix composites, Hybrid composites, Computational materials science, Metals and alloy materials, Polymer processing, Nanomaterials, Functional materials, Biomedical image processing, Biochemical engineering, Biofluid mechanics, Cell, tissue and organ engineering, Arithmetic and logic structures, Automation, feedback control and robotics, Bio-informatics, Analogue and digital signal processing, Engineering instrumentation, Environmental health and safety, Biostatistics, Care for disabled, Bioethics
  • Disciplines  (University of Antwerp):Human-computer interaction, Design theories and methods not elsewhere classified, Human-centred design, Digital and interaction design
  • Disciplines  (Ghent University):Robotics and automatic control, Human-computer interaction, Systems design, Robot manipulation and interfaces, Human-centred design, Human-centred and life-like robotics
  • Research techniques  (University of Antwerp):Iterative Prototyping: Key in developing user-centric interfaces, enhancing both physical and digital aspects of product design. Using software like Figma or JS/CSS/HTML for UI/UX design; Arduino and Raspberry Pi for smart product prototyping (electronics). Sandbox Culture: Aligns with the emphasis on new prototyping methods, encouraging innovation without fear of failure. Tools like virtual reality, computational design and 3D modelling software to simulate and test designs in a risk-free environment. Technology Brokering: Integrates cutting-edge technology in HCI and HRI, crucial for smart product design. Utilising AI platforms and IoT development kits to integrate advanced technologies into designs. User Experience Scales: Directly related to UX/UI design, measuring user satisfaction and interactions, via ISO standards and/or scientific UX-scales. Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis: Essential for understanding user behavior in HCI and product design, supporting data-driven decision making linked to UX-testing, utilising python or R for (automated) analysis of (physio)-data. Literature Reviews and Case Studies: Provide foundational knowledge and real-world insights into interaction design and user experience. Sustainable Business Model Exploration: Ties into the focus on circular economy and sustainable design of smart products. Using the SDGs, EU-guidelines and sustainability assessment tools to evaluate environmental impacts.
  • Users of research expertise  (University of Antwerp):Product Designers and Developers: Gaining insights into user-centric design and innovative prototyping methods. Technology Companies: Especially those focusing on IoT, AI, and smart product development. HCI and HRI Researchers: Benefiting from advanced methodologies in human-technology interaction. Educational Institutions: Implementing sandbox culture in their teaching methodologies. Sustainability Advocates: Interested in circular economy and sustainable design practices. Businesses in the Circular Economy: Seeking innovative approaches to product lifecycle and sustainability.