Background
At Philips, we are constantly striving to improve the performance of beard trimmers, head trimmers, stylers, and shavers. To achieve this, we conduct extensive user testing both internally and externally. However, these tests are time-consuming and costly, so we also rely on lab-based testing to simulate consumer experiences and results. One of our key lab setups is the “Evenness” test, which evaluates how evenly our devices trim hair, ensuring no stray hairs and consistent length across the surface.
The Problem
Our current Evenness setup works well for beard hairs (2-10 mm in length) but faces challenges when testing longer hairs (up to 20 mm or more). The problem is twofold:
- Measuring Long Hairs: Longer hairs tend to bend or fall flat after trimming, making accurate length measurements difficult.
- Measuring Small Differences (Delta): The setup lacks the robustness to measure small differences between the set length and the actual trimmed length for longer hairs, due to the first issue.
The Assignment
We are looking for a creative and motivated intern to develop and design a solution to these challenges. Using a structured development approach, such as the DIDOV method (Define, Identify, Design, Optimize, Verify), you will work to improve the Evenness setup and enhance its accuracy for longer hair measurements.
Your Tasks
- Define the problem and its requirements.
- Brainstorm potential solutions.
- Design and model concepts (using CAD).
- Build prototypes and test them.
- Analyze test results and refine your solution.
- Provide a final report with recommendations for implementation or further development.
What We Offer
- A supportive and innovative environment where creativity and ownership are valued.
- Guidance from a team of enthusiastic professionals with diverse expertise.
- Opportunities to explore other competencies and roles within the company.
- A chance to make a tangible impact on product development and consumer satisfaction.
What We’re Looking For
- A student with a passion for problem-solving and innovation.
- Someone eager to apply structured development methods and learn through hands-on experience.
- A proactive individual who can take ownership of their work while collaborating with a supportive team.
Join us in shaping the future of grooming technology!
Publication date January 15th, 2026