Research projects

For the manufacturing sector in the plastics industry, bridging the gap between prototypes and production is a challenge. Howest aims to provide guidance to companies in building end-product-oriented prototypes, enabling them to make better design decisions.                      

This practice-based research challenges how designers can explore new concepts related to the sustainable development of ecosystems from more-than-human perspectives.                                                                                                                  

Creating digital content (marketing campaigns, websites, apps and VR/AR applications) requires a thorough understanding of end-user experiences and responses. Traditional methods such as surveys provide valuable insights, but often miss the unconscious responses.                 

Southwest Flanders is renowned as Belgium's production hub, hosting one out of every three manufacturing companies in the country. Many of these organizations are under pressure to transform into industries that handle available materials and resources in a more sustainable manne

How has the Flemish coastal landscape evolved over the past 5000 years, both at sea and on land? Which areas were flooded and eroded during storm surges? What archaeological traces of past habitation and exploitation are preserved on land and in the sea?                          

Creativ'Up aims to support cross-border innovation initiatives in the cultural and creative sector through inspiration, networking, enhancement of entrepreneurial skills, and innovation/change coaching.                                                                              

What assistive tools or technologies do people with disabilities need to partially compensate or even overcome their limitations while performing specific circus techniques? Howest, HOGENT, and Circusatelier Woesh are seeking an answer to this question.                           

Too often, the residual flows from smaller production companies (post-industrial) are sorted, stocked, and transported for recycling, processing, or incineration instead of being sustainably and locally utilized.                                           Within the Circular Solut

To support job creation, retain talent, and foster innovation in the strategic sectors of the region, the project will boost economic development by establishing a cross-border ecosystem (involving research, students, businesses, industries, artists, and investors).