The Thor Ergonomic Project
2025
Human-Centred AI Award
Winner
Thor Experimental Tooling Group, Steinkjær
Designers / Creators / Authors / Leaders
Hans Pedersson, Eva Hermannstranda
The Thor Ergonomic Project places human-centred design at its very core, with the guiding principle that tools should be shaped around people, not the other way around. The preliminary phase, developed by students, explores innovative approaches to understanding and redefining human tools. This includes:
Crafts and Making: Examining traditional and contemporary crafts as a source of knowledge about the interaction between people and tools.
Human Anthropometrics: Studying body measurements and ergonomics to ensure that design is grounded in real human dimensions and needs.
Tactility and Materials: Investigating how the feel, texture, and responsiveness of materials influence usability and comfort.
Production Methods: Considering how different modes of production can support or hinder ergonomic quality.
At every stage, the human experience remains the central theme—ensuring that functionality, comfort, and intuitive use are never secondary to technical or aesthetic considerations.
The Thor Ergonomic Project ultimately aims to set new standards for how we think about the design of human tools: not simply as objects of utility, but as extensions of the body that respect and enhance human ability and well-being.
