Master Thesis - The sound of future boating

Thesis Background


With our new electromobility segment in the marine business, Volvo Penta is gradually moving towards a new era where sound is playing a more important role. Even if the large challenge is to develop new electric marine motors, batteries, and propulsion systems, we are determined to develop more user-friendly HMI, including displays and controls. At the Vehicle Interface department, we are focusing on creating seamless user experiences for our marine customers. Therefore, it is important that we stay at the forefront of our development to be able to challenge the market and meet the user requirements of the future.

Thesis scope of work
Aim

The objective for this thesis is to make a study, find and explore user needs, and to develop a design concept for how sound can improve the user experience at sea. The outcome should encompass Easy Boating, which is Volvo Penta’s guiding principle to simplify the total usage of a boat and to make the experience more enjoyable.
First step

Explore the future needs of sound experience onboard in relation to our different marine segments and the end users. Approach this through internal interviews and benchmarking of external companies both within marine and automotive. The conclusions of the need are preferably presented as user journeys and user stories.

Second step

Develop design concepts and evaluate these together with Volvo Penta through design evaluation methodology.

Third step

Detailed concept proposals of how the sound of future boating and recommendation of what technical basis is needed to realize the concepts.

Qualifications & Required Documents
Master students within Product Development, Industrial Design, or similar.
Knowledge in ergonomics and HMI as well as voice and sound design.
Interest in boats / vessels.

Please send your application including CV, Cover Letter, and Transcript of grades. If you have a portfolio, it is appreciated if you include it.


Practical information:


Thesis Level: Master (30 ECTS points)
Language: English
Starting date: January 2022
Number of students: 2 students
Last application date: 22 of December 2022
Examiner proposal: To be decided

Contact
Oskar Börjesson, Manager Vehicle Interface, oskar.borjesson.2@volvo.com
Anna Hagberg, HMI Engineer, anna.hagberg@volvo.com

Kindly note that due to GDPR, we will not accept applications via mail. Please use our career site.