Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Biomedical Systems Prototyping Laboratory
Other languages of instruction: Catalan, Spanish
Teaching staff
Please send an email to make an appointment (bmobaraki@uic.es)
Introduction
This course on prototyping introduces students to the transformative world of 3D printing technologies, focusing on practical applications such as the assembly of the HACKberry bionic hand and the development of innovative printing inks, bridging theory with hands-on experience to foster skills in digital fabrication and material science. The subject is taught in English.
Pre-course requirements
Prior to enrolling in this prototyping course, students should have a basic understanding of mechanical design principles, modeling, mechanics, familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, and an interest in hands-on engineering projects.
Objectives
1. Understand the fundamental principles and applications of 3D printing technology.
2. Acquire practical skills in assembling and troubleshooting a bionic hand, specifically the "HACKberry" model.
3. Develop competencies in creating and optimizing 3D printing inks to enhance print quality and performance.
4. Explore the interdisciplinary connections between mechanical design, material science, and digital fabrication techniques.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- CE17 - To be able to identify the engineering concepts that can be applied in the fields of biology and health.
- CE9 - To apply the basic foundations of elasticity and the resistance of materials to the behaviour of actual volumes.
- HB11 - Apply the fundamentals of elasticity and resistance of materials to the behaviour of real solids.
Learning outcomes of the subject
1. Advanced Design Proficiency - Utilizing sophisticated CAD software, students will design bioengineering solutions like bionic hands that improve the quality of life for amputees through enhanced functionality and aesthetics.
2. Mechanical Characterization Integration - Students will perform mechanical characterization of the materials used in the bionic hand, analyzing their properties to predict and optimize the hand’s performance under various conditions.
3. Finite Element Modeling Application - Through finite element modeling, students will simulate the mechanical behavior of the bionic hand, allowing them to understand stress distributions, predict potential failures, and refine the hand’s design for enhanced durability and functionality.
4. 3D Printing Mastery - Students will acquire specialized skills in 3D printing, essential for creating complex biomedical devices and prosthetics, including bionic hands tailored for amputees.
5. Bioink Formulation - Students will learn the principles of bioink formulation, focusing on creating materials that can be used for 3D bioprinting applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Syllabus
1. Introduction to 3D Printing and Bioengineering.
2. Bionic Hand analysis, printing, and Assembly.
3. Development and Application of Bioinks.
Teaching and learning activities
In person
The activities can be grouped into four main types: lecture sessions, participatory sessions, practical sessions and individual or group study
Evaluation systems and criteria
In person
Theory of 3D printing (15%), Bionic hand project presentation (55%), Bioink project presentation, (30%).
Important considerations
- Plagiarism, copying, or any other action that may be considered cheating will be zero in that evaluation section. Besides, in exams, it will mean the immediate failure of the whole subject.
- In the second-sitting exams, the maximum grade students will be able to obtain is "Excellent" (grade with honors distinction will not be possible).
- Changes in the calendar, exam dates, or the evaluation system will not be accepted.
- Exchange students (Erasmus and others) or repeaters will be subjected to the same conditions as the rest of the students.
Evaluation period
- E1 19/05/2025 I3 15:30h