At the Department of Design Sciences, the concept of design is used in a wide meaning, and includes the design of man–technology systems, packaging and packaging logistics, organisations and production systems, besides the design of actual products. Teaching is carried out in many of LTH’s programmes.

 Design Sciences
 

Researchers at CERTEC – the Division for Rehabilitation Engineering Research – develop design principles and technical solutions that help people with disabilities in their everyday lives. Research is based on real needs with the aim of making it possible for more people to study, to work, and to live at home. One of the central areas of research is the interplay between IT, design and pedagogics.
Keywords: the disabled, disabilities, handicaps, aids, elderly and design, rehabilitation engineering, design for all, user-focused design, cognitive assistance, man–computer interaction, optics and the poorly sighted
 

Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology includes five areas, which deal in different ways with the interaction between people, technical systems and the environment.
Aerosol technology – the study of aerosols (ultra-fine, airborne particles): properties, health risks, measuring techniques, clean-room technology, product hygiene and pharmaceutical applications.
Keywords: clean-room technology, air quality, smoke and dust, allergies, particulates from combustion, indoor air, working place air

Man, technology, organisation and risk management – the study of methods of identifying and remedying system weaknesses in organisations and technology; risk management; organisation techniques.

In Man–technology systems, research is carried out into how humans use technology, cognitively and physically, and design interactive systems, e.g. virtual reality.

Organisation design and change management, is concerned with processes of change; in working life, in management, visualisation and learning, and strategic business development.
Keywords: organisation design, change management

The Thermal Environment deals with the interplay between man and the thermal environment, for example, risk assessment models and protective clothing for extreme environments.
Keywords: thermal environment, extreme environments, health and working capacity, risk assessment and need for protection in extreme environments
 

Packaging Logistics involves building up knowledge on packaging, from wrapping to delivery and use by the end consumer. This includes the ecocycle, information requirements, information systems, standards, choice of materials, new packages, recycling potential and design. Research is carried out in areas such as traceability, e-commerce, added value and the effects of the package on logistics.
Keywords: packages, packaging, logistics, supply chain, traceability, AutoID, modelling, simulation, RFID, radio-frequency ID, degree of filling
 

Industrial Design provides courses and projects in the core subject for the 5-year Industrial Design Programme. Research is focused on three main areas: meta qualities, i.e. the emotional dimensions of products and design elements, methods of communication with the user and in the creative work of the industrial designer, and the management of design in companies.
Keywords: industrial design, user-centred design, design
 

Machine Design is concerned with methods of product planning, product development and design, primarily for products based on mechanical principles. An integrated approach is taken to planning (market analysis, strategies, etc.), development and design, as well as the development and application of methods, techniques and tools, often computerized, to carry out specific operations.
Keywords: product development methodology for mechanical products, design, design methodology, computer-based design tools