Research projects

The D4E1 Lab (Design for Everyone) within the Industrial Design Center (IDC) is one of the pioneers in human-centered and participatory healthcare innovation in Flanders, with successful projects like Makerhealth and Makeability.                                                   

From conversations with partners in the construction sector, it became evident that there is untapped potential for integrating STEM into the construction industry.                                                                                                                    

A group of young people aged 14 and above will collaborate on spotlighting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through an artistic-technological intervention in their city/town. A program will be established in collaboration with local youth organizations.                   

Howest, through STEAMhive, plays a pivotal role in the field of STEM in leisure activities. Within STEAMhive III, Howest provides support to organisations aiming to establish extracurricular STEM activities from the Mind- and Makerspace and The Enterprise.                        

For cities, keeping the energy bill affordable is a challenge. Howest is assisting Kortrijk city in this regard. Through pilot projects in Kortrijk Weide and Transfo Zwevegem, the Smart Technology Energy lab is developing a data architecture for smart control of energy systems. 

This project proposal aims to enable an affordable energy transition for low-voltage customers in a broader area, such as a neighborhood.                                                                                                                                               

The commuting system needs to be more sustainable. The proportion of cycling and public transport in commuting needs to increase. To achieve these objectives, the Commuting Fund has been established.The Commuting Fund will undertake various actions to attain these goals: