Susanne Seitinger

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About

Susanne Seitinger is a pioneering researcher and designer whose work sits at the intersection of urban technology, interactive environments, and tangible media. Her key research areas include smart city lighting, human-computer interaction, and the design of animated, responsive artifacts. Seitinger is best known for advancing the concept of "kit-of-parts" thinking in robotic assemblies, as explored in her influential paper "Plywood Punk" (2009, 11 citations), which demonstrated how standard components like Dynamixel servos and Lego Mindstorms can empower designers, enthusiasts, and children to create complex animated objects. This work has had a lasting impact on the fields of DIY robotics and educational technology, inspiring a generation of makers to approach interactive design with modular, accessible tools. Beyond her academic contributions, Seitinger has applied her expertise in industry, notably at Philips Lighting (now Signify), where she led the development of connected urban lighting systems that respond to human behavior and environmental data. Her research continues to shape how we think about the intersection of physical computing, public space, and participatory design, making her a key figure in the evolution of smart, human-centered cities.