University of Twente Student Theses
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Advancing smart office efficiency: A sensor-based artifact for real-time desk occupancy
Gemund, Alex van (2025) Advancing smart office efficiency: A sensor-based artifact for real-time desk occupancy.
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| Abstract: | This thesis investigates a sensor-based solution to improve desk and space utilization in hybrid working environments. As flexible workstations have become more standard, organizations face challenges regarding efficient office occupancy. A radar prototype was developed to detect real-time desk occupancy without requiring any user input. The system achieved 99.5% accuracy in testing and was also evaluated through expert validation, who, although they confirmed the relevance and technical promise of the solution, raised concerns about scalability, power consumption, and useradoption. To guide the development, the Design Science Methodology (DSM) was applied, enabling iterative problem investigation. An extensive literature review revealed that many existing smart office solutions prioritize building-level automation rather than an employee-centered design. Through interviews with facility managers at six large organizations, current practices and common inefficiencies were benchmarked, confirming the need for a simple, accurate, and privacy- preserving desk occupancy solution. Sensor testing compared radar, PIR and ultrasonic options, with the radar sensor emerging as the most effective in terms of accuracy and deployment feasibility. A simple webinterface was also developed to display real-time occupancy data. Expert feedback emphasized the importance of modular design and alignment with existing infrastructure and user workflows. This research delivers a validated prototype and practical insights for implementing smartoffice technologies. It highlights both the potential and the limitations of a sensor-driven occupancy system in supporting efficient, adaptable, and user-friendly hybrid work environments. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | EEMCS: Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science |
| Programme: | Business Information Technology MSc (60025) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/107698 |
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