Co.Lab Perception

Co.Lab Perception is an interdisciplinary experimental space where design, psychology, and technology converge to explore the mysteries of how we experience and interpret the world around us.

The Co.Lab offers state-of-the-art methods and technologies to investigate how people process visual, auditory, and tactile information. Research into context-dependent perception and interaction in design—both as basic research and, above all, as context-dependent qualitative field studies—is a central aspect of the Co.Lab. Topics such as usability, inclusivity, and diversity are to be optimally integrated into the design and research process. Here, the interaction between human and non-human actors plays a major role.

Questions addressed:

What influence does human perception have on the use of designed artifacts? How do colors influence our emotions and decisions? What role does material play in our physical and emotional response to objects? What factors influence the acceptance of products or interactions? How can we use design to improve the user experience? How do specific situations and contexts influence design? What interaction patterns are appropriate for the intended use? How can design be inclusive and sensitive to diversity?

Examples of the types of activities at the on-site Co.Lab

- Experiments on visual perception: We investigate how people recognize shapes, colors, and movements. This includes studies on color perception, visual attention, and the processing of faces and emotions.

- Auditory tests: In these experiments, we explore how people process sounds and music. This includes investigating pitch, volume, and timbre, as well as understanding how people perceive speech and musical structures.

- Tactile perception: Here, we focus on understanding the sense of touch. We conduct experiments to explore how different textures, temperatures, and pressure sensations are perceived.

- Multisensory integration: These studies examine how different sensory inputs are combined to create a coherent perception of the world. We examine how visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli interact.

- Perceptual Psychology and Design: We analyze how design elements can influence perception and behavior. This includes investigating the psychological effects of design on the user experience.

- Use and Further Development of Perceptual Tests: We develop and validate tests designed to identify perceptual characteristics and capabilities.

These activities are supported by technical equipment and software that enable us to collect and analyze precise data.

These activities are supported by technical equipment and software that enable us to collect and analyze precise data. Our goal is to use this research to contribute to a better understanding of human perception and to develop applications that can improve well-being and quality of life.