Peter Thorvald
School of Engineering Science
In the development of new products, there is often a lack of understanding of the needs of the user. Our research group , UCPD, aims to contribute to the creation of a product design process where user needs and expectations are in focus. Our research generates knowledge that contributes to new tools and methods for the development of more user-friendly products. The group conducts research in the following areas: digital human modelling, anthropometry, industrial information design and smart textiles.
The research group’s ambition is to work with broad user groups to generate solutions that contribute to a positive user experience, good ergonomics and high quality products for user groups. The product should offer individual quality of life improvements, fulfil social sustainability goals and support profitable enterprise. The term ‘product’ includes everything from consumer products and vehicles to workstations, information systems, etc.
In collaborations between researchers and industry partners, our goal is to contribute new knowledge so that we can achieve our common objectives. Our research is applied in people’s everyday lives, and for precisely this reason, close collaboration with companies, research institutes and other universities is very important for our research. Together, we identify challenges and find common solutions. Please take a moment to explore our current and completed research projects.
Research into methods and tools for modelling and simulating human-product interactions for the design of ergonomic products and workstations. This area also includes human-robot interaction.
Contact: Dan Högberg
Anthropometry is a branch of ergonomics that deals with the human body’s dimensions. This research is related to the collection, processing, use and communication of anthropometric data for design.
Contact: Erik Brolin
Cognitive ergonomics is a research field that examines how people interact with work environments, technologies, and systems based on mental processes such as perception, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving. The goal is to design workplaces and technical systems that reduce cognitive load, improve efficiency and safety, and promote well-being. This field is particularly relevant in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and digital interfaces, where human factors play a crucial role in performance and working conditions.
Contact: Peter Thorvald
Research on how smart textiles can be used in industry to improve interaction, ergonomics and productivity. This area also includes human-robot interaction.
Contact: Lars Hanson