Research team contacts

Principal Researcher:

Associate Professor Veronica Garcia Hansen, School of Architecture & Built Environment, QUT

Associate Researcher:

Dr Maryam Haghighat, School of Electrical Engineering & Robotics, QUT

Research Student:

Mahdi Valitabar, QUT

Research Centre / Group:

Human-building interaction

What is the purpose of this research?

To develop a personalised shading control system for shared offices that could significantly control discomfort glare in an energy-efficient way.

Are you looking for people like me?

The research team invites individuals over 18 years old to participate in a study requiring a commitment of 4 full days within a 2-week period in an experiment room (office space). Participants will be expected to carry out their daily tasks during this time.

What will you ask me to do?

During these 4 days, you will continue with your daily tasks in the experiment room while we observe your interaction with the shadings.

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

The research team has identified the following possible risk in relation to participating in this study:

  • Participants might experience discomfort glare at different times. Although a remote control will be provided to adjust the roller shades, individuals sensitive to glare may find this process uncomfortable. Therefore, people who have undergone corrective eye surgery or been diagnosed with eye sensitivity are not eligible to participate in this research.

Important

If you do agree to participate, you can withdraw from participation in the research project at any time. If you decide to withdraw, your personal information will be promptly and securely saved in a lockable cupboard within the storage located at level 3 of the QUT D block and will not be used in this research.

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

It is expected that this research project will not benefit you directly. However, it benefits every individual, including HDR students working in shared office rooms.

Will I be compensated for my time?

To acknowledge your contribution, the research team is offering $160 as compensation at the completion of your 4 full day participation.

I am interested - what should I do next?

For details of the next step, please contact:

Mahdi Valitabar     
mahdi.valitabar@hdr.qut.edu.au
0426 131 123

You will be provided with further information to ensure that your decision and consent to participate is fully informed.

QUT Ethics Number: 8692