Undergraduate Degree in Industrial Design Engineering

Semester 1

Materials
General and scientifically based introduction to materials in engineering, starting from basic atomic and molecular models. Study of the main families of materials (metals, polymers, composites, ceramics, biological materials) and their properties. In-depth study of concepts such as bioengineering, circularity and sustainability of materials.

Algebra and Calculus
Fundamental mathematical concepts and calculation tools applicable to engineering. Computational application of mathematics as a design tool. In algebra, the emphasis is placed on geometric vision and transformations in space. In calculus, on the other hand, on the representation of curves and surfaces, and on the applications of derivatives and integrals.

Fundamentals of Programming
Programming languages in industrial design engineering: creation of variables, conditional sentences, control structures, definition of functions and object orientation. Programming applied to engineering: examples in different fields such as mathematical resolution, tangible programming, robotics, motion analysis, data visualisation and app programming.  

Artistic Expression
Basic graphic communication skills through drawing, photography and graphic design work to structure, communicate and give expressiveness to the communication of engineering projects.

Design Methodology
Methodological basis of the design process in engineering, in order to strengthen research, experimentation, design and communication skills. Basic knowledge of systemic analysis and the scientific method necessary to investigate and reason a product design and development process.
 
Download the subjects in PDF

Semester 2

Materials Physics
Learn the physical properties of materials, mainly mechanical, in order to make a correct and optimal selection of materials for product development in sustainable industrial design engineering. In the science laboratory you will experiment with metallic, ceramic, polymeric and composite materials.

Mechanics
Calculation and simulation of the optimisation of a product at the structural and mechanical performance level. Study of the statics of mechanical systems, the bases of kinematics and dynamics of mechanisms and the application of power balance to solve mechanical systems and specific technical problems.

Computer-Aided Design
Introduction to 3D parametric modelling for product design and development and its communication. It focuses on 4 key aspects: recognising and shaping two-dimensional and three-dimensional geometric forms of a product using 3D parametric software; considering different strategies in parametric modelling; solving problems in modelling and 3D assembly joints; and organising the different components of the representation of a product in 2D and 3D (ENG).  

Electrical and Electronic Technology
Observe and understand the different technologies associated with electrical and electronic circuits, magnetic phenomena and different types of motors. The theoretical basis will be combined with practical cases of tangible programming, applicable to the different stages of development of products, systems and services.

Aesthetics and Design
Learning to understand objects from the culture of form, acquiring the necessary knowledge for the historical, social, cultural and formal analysis of an object or design. By carrying out two projects, this knowledge is integrated into the process of design, development and prototyping of everyday objects with technological elements.

Download the subjects in PDF

Semester 3  

Industrial processes  
Introduction to manufacturing processes for the different families of materials: ceramics, metals, polymers and composites. From moulding to additive manufacturing, including machining, injection moulding and cold forming. The technological aspects of the design and development process of a product and the technical decisions of a product are studied in depth, defining the materials of which it is composed and the manufacturing processes (ENG). 

Structural Calculation  
Dimensioning structural elements subjected to combined stresses, analysing mechanical systems (products) and evaluating the loads that act and the stresses they cause. Students will learn to calculate the stresses and deformations in elastic regime and to dimension elements with the appropriate safety factor, applying the corresponding failure criterion to each material. 

Statistical Methods  
Methodology necessary to be able to carry out statistical calculations in the descriptive and inferential area. Proper application of data collection methods, working with random variables and being able to define probability distributions. Carrying out confidence intervals to guarantee the reliability of the data, linear regression and correlation techniques to make hypotheses based on the data collected.  

Graphic Expression  
Basis for graphic communication using sketch drawing techniques and CAD programmes. Starting point to achieve knowledge of graphic representation in engineering through the creation of industrial assemblies and the exploded view of their components, including the representation applying the regulations for manufacturing plans, tolerances and finishes.  

Design and Experimentation Project  
Introduction to the project from a more explorative and experimental point of view, with scientific knowledge as the starting point for research. The role of the technical documentation of scientific research in justifying the decisions taken will be explored in depth. A briefing or problem to be solved is proposed in order to implement project techniques and methodologies that allow a solid value proposal to be reached.

Download the subjects in PDF
 

Semester 4  

Materials Technology  
Study and understand the principles that govern the behaviour of matter from an optical, thermodynamic and fluid point of view. Analysis of optical phenomena such as reflection/refraction, scattering and polarisation with existing materials. Heat transmission: conduction, induction, convection and radiation, as well as the fundamental notions of fluids and their behaviour on a micro and macro scale.  

Computer Aided Manufacturing  
Design of products for their manufacture and assembly: design of parts for the production process, solving the systems of joints and mechanical assemblies of the product and generating the corresponding technical documentation. Industrial technologies and digitalisation systems for their manufacture will be studied in depth.  

Technology and Interaction  
Technology and user experience. Methodologies for specifying the architecture of interactive products, systems and services, in order to attend to the whole life cycle: usability, functionality, manufacture, distribution and rejection. User experience techniques to make design decisions, adapting the product to the different cultural, social, economic, ethical and gender perspective realities (ENG).  

Technological Project Management  
Different business models, ways of managing a project and market studies. Techniques for managing teams, leading departments. Tools and resources for delegating tasks and monitoring objectives. Emphasis on management with a gender perspective.  

Development and Sustainability Project  
Introduction to industrial ecology projects through the application of sustainable, economic and social analysis techniques, applied to the life cycle of a product, system and/or service. Study of existing methodologies and current regulations, and preparation of documentation for technical feasibility.

Download the subjects in PDF

Semester 5  

Advanced Materials  
Study of the different families of materials (ceramic, metallic and polymeric) within a framework of sustainability and circularity of materials. Design and development of new circular technical materials through the revaluation of waste. Creation of new materials suitable for additive manufacturing or the creation of composites.  

Simulation  
Optimisation of the mechanical behaviour of a product with simulation tools. Analysis of complex mechanical mechanisms and systems, dimensioned for their function and to comply with the corresponding safety factor. Definition of the boundary conditions and material properties with simulation tools to obtain the stresses and displacements of the garment.  

Mechatronics and Robotics  
History of robotics. Definition of the technologies associated with robotics, as well as the different types of robots, and domestic and industrial applications. Knowledge of complex mechanisms, analysis of forces, speeds and degrees of freedom, analysis of critical positions, optimisation of mechanisms and technical redesign applied to robotics.  

Electives - to choose 1 subject (see end of syllabus)*  
 

Semester 6  

Electives - to choose 4 subjects (see the end of the syllabus)* 

Semester 7  

Design Research  
Introduction to design research and the techniques and tools of scientific research applicable to the design and development of a project. Research methodologies for the design process taking into account the different cultural, social, economic, ethical and gender realities. The context of application will be the previous research of the final degree project with the aim of guiding the first explorations and arriving at a value proposal (ENG).    

External Internships I and II  
Application of the knowledge and skills obtained during the degree in a professional environment, whether in institutions, companies or research centres. Development and reflection on professional identity in a practical way and in context.  

Semester 8

Electives - to choose 1 subject (see end of syllabus)*  

Innovation and Entrepreneurship  
Definition and development of a business plan for the Final Degree Project or any other project created at school or personally. Analysis of its life cycle, assessing its industrial implications, business organisation, financing and profitability in the current legal-fiscal framework, in order to achieve a successful situation (ENG).

Communication & Academic Writing  
Tools and strategies for visual, oral and written communication of a project, aimed at the scientific community and society in general. Application in the Final Degree Project or any other project to be developed, both at an academic and business level (ENG).  

Final Degree Project  
Development of the Final Degree Project based on the student's own proposal or in collaboration with institutions, companies or research centres. It will have a theoretical foundation, a research methodology, a formal and technical development, an economic viability study and a final documentation and presentation. 

Design and Materials Specialisation

Materials Project  
Design and development of a product (or applied technology) based on a material and its properties. Creation of a functional prototype that integrates the researched material, the integral communication of the research and the results in a scientific, cultural, social and economic context.  

Design and Biomaterials  
Study and experimentation with materials of biological origin and/or materials suitable for biological interaction or biomaterials. Introduction to advanced biological materials, implantation in living systems, and tissue engineering. 3D and 4D printing for digital fabrication of living tissues and systems. Natural microstructures and nanomaterials.  

Sustainability and Regeneration  
Holistic view of sustainability and in-depth analysis of the life cycle of a product, system or service. Interpretation of data on the ecological, economic and social impact of the process of design, manufacture and use of products, systems and services as a principle for regenerating the local economic, social and industrial fabric.  

Hybrid and Sensoric Materials  
Exploration and creation of hybrid materials, combining organic and inorganic materials, and techniques such as screen printing, printed electronics, textiles and additive manufacturing. Exploration of external layers with interactive properties on the body in the form of wearables and second skins.  

Development and Simulation Specialisation

Simulation Project  
Management and development of a real engineering project through virtual validation of the product. Application of digital technologies used by industry, and emerging simulation tools that support manufacturing, assembly and use.  

Structural and Multiphysics Simulation  
Design based on simulation and finite element analysis. Structural simulation as a validation and design tool. Design generation from topological optimisation and multiphysics simulation.  

Kinematic and Dynamic Simulation  
Creation of complex kinematic connections of mechanical systems. Evaluation of the technical requirements necessary for the design and operation of a product. Interpretation and evaluation of the results obtained in a kinematic and dynamic simulation of a mechanism. Optimisation of the movement of a product.  

Implementation and Technical Development  
Management of the product life cycle during development, technical validation and production by means of a case study. Development-based industrial implementation for the manufacture, function and assembly of components, under the standards of manufacturing processes and quality.  

Management and Data Specialisation

Data Project  
Integration in the company of a process of innovation and control of the production system to be competitive in today's changing context. Application of processes to experiment and validate the integration of innovation, to be able to make the right decisions, implement them and organise human teams.

Intelligent Manufacturing and Systems  
Digital technologies for the development, manufacture and distribution of a product, system and service. Application in the contexts of Industry 4.0, the maker world and the new digital craftsmanship.  

Connected Ecosystems  
Fundamentals of communication between devices (wifi, bluetooth or radio-frequency communication). Creation of architectures for the management of data captured by sensors and processing of this information with basic artificial intelligence systems.  

Data Analysis and Visualisation  
Tools for the analysis and correct visualisation of data, in a panorama in which there is more and more information. Creation of different visualisations and representations, with an artistic approach. 

Crossover Project  
Development of cross-cutting projects: work with teams from different design specialities and interpretation of knowledge from different fields. Communication strategies using different media (ENG). 

Graphic Design Project  
Learning the structure of the phases of a project: from the research and analysis of a specific assignment, to the study of graphic systems, the application in different supports and, finally, the phase of standardisation and production.  

Product Design Project  
From the human to the machine. Approach to speculative and technological product design. Specific project methodologies to design prospective proposals. New Realities: Rethinking Post-COVID 2025 and Global Warming 2030 scenarios. Technology and well-being: Designing products through the monitoring of health data to improve people's lives.  

Space Design Project  
Development of methodologies that allow the definition of the project of spaces for public use in the different phases, from the relationship with the site on a physical, cultural and social level, to the distribution of spaces and construction details.  

Interactive Experience Design Project  
Review of concepts and theoretical perspectives and a tour of interactive projects in the field of design, digital arts and electronic arts. Ideation and construction of a physical interface that responds to possible future scenarios.  

Processes and Materials Workshop: Graphic Design  
Advanced text composition, kerning control, tracking and P&J, design and use of complex grids and typographic font design. Knowledge and recognition of materials, supports for graphic production and their relationship with production systems.  

Processes and Materials Workshop: Product Design  
Learning through theoretical and practical exercises to learn about and experiment with new industrial processes and materials, digital manufacturing technologies and new materials.  

Processes and Materials Workshop: Design of Spaces  
Workshop to learn details and construction systems, and to carry out the control of the sustainability of a project (environmental and well-being impact in the context of space).  

Processes and Materials Workshop: Designing Interactive Experiences  
Conceptualisation, design and construction of a prototype that, from its different components, allows students to acquire knowledge about creative programming with Arduino, electronic circuits, and the manufacture of interactive objects to link the physical world with the digital world.