It's October, and for Eindhoven and design that can mean only one thing - Dutch Design Week is back! From October 19th to 27th the city of Eindhoven will be hosting a range of displays and events profiling how designers are shaping the future. And TU/e will once again be part of the programme with the TU/e 'Drivers of Change' exposition on the Ketelhuisplein at Strijp-S. Some 15 projects will be in place for the week, and the theme connecting them is 'Semicon'. Here, we preview three highlights from this year's exhibition.
"A compact exhibition featuring a variety of stimulating and engaging topics." That's what Lucas Asselbergs - project leader and curator - says visitors can expect from the Drivers of Change this year.
This year's projects cover a range of topics connected to the theme of 'Semicon'. "At the root of so many important technical designs and devices, you'll find semiconductors," notes Asselbergs. "A semiconductor may not be a design in itself, but it's a technology that is indispensable in many of the tech-driven designs that enrich our world and expand our potential."
From autonomous driving to sound fun
Projects at the TU/e Drivers of Change 2024 will cover several topics. These include autonomous driving cars that make quick decisions thanks to a plethora of sensors and the project 'Soundsnip' where visitors will get the chance to create musical loops using sounds of their choosing (three projects are previewed in detail below).
For Jeanette Schoumacher - project manager on communication for the TU/e Drivers of Change - this year's Dutch Design Week is a poignant one as it is her last event before retiring next month.
"Every year I'm excited by the Dutch Design Week and TU/e's Drivers of Change," says Schoumacher. "Over the years, I've witnessed some startling projects and brilliant designs. It's been a pleasure to be part of sharing these incredible projects."
And what does Schoumacher recommend visitors do when they come to TU/e Drivers of Change? "Speak to designers and researchers to discover the story about their designs. They're always happy to share their motivations and design journeys. And the hosts are always available to guide you through the exhibition and provide you with some suggestions on how to get the most out of your visit."