- Docente: Angelo Davalli
- Credits: 2
- SSD: MEDS-26/B
- Language: Italian
- Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Orthopaedics Techniques (cod. 5915)
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from Oct 08, 2026 to Nov 06, 2026
Learning outcomes
At the end of the module, the student is familiar with measuring instruments and their correct use, the tricks used in industry to obtain appropriate mechanical measurements; he/she is able to assess the maximum permissible error in both laboratory and industrial measurements with particular regard to operating protocols.
Course contents
LESSON 1: Introduction – Fundamentals of Metrology and Instrumentation
LESSON 2: Mechanical Measurements – Kinematics and Dynamics
LESSON 3: Mechanical Measurements – Properties of Materials Used in Orthopedics and Their Measurement
LESSON 4: Thermal Measurements – Focus on Prosthetics
LESSON 5: Testing, Safety, and ISO Standards for Medical Devices – Part 1
LESSON 6: Testing, Safety, and ISO Standards for Medical Devices – Part 2
Readings/Bibliography
Teaching materials deemed useful for preparation and supplementation will be available from the instructor and provided directly to students.
Teaching methods
A comprehensive overview of key physical measurements relevant to the industry will be presented, with a specific focus on those applicable to the field of orthopedics. Instruction will primarily consist of lectures supported by video projections and slides, encouraging student discussion on practical issues raised by the instructor.
Students will be provided with the lecture slides and technical manuals containing practical examples.
Assessment methods
The final assessment consists of a written test comprising 30 multiple-choice questions (with four options each) and an optional oral examination, provided the written test score is at least 18/30.
During the optional oral examination, questions will be asked to assess:
- the depth of understanding regarding the presented topic;
knowledge of other course content;
- the ability to establish logical-deductive connections between different themes;
- the level of comprehensive understanding of the topics covered during lectures.
- Evaluation will also consider the ability to present the required topics accurately, comprehensively, and critically, as well as clarity of expression and the ability to use the discipline's specific terminology.
Criteria for assigning the final grade:
As the written assessment is a multiple-choice test, the score is determined by the number of correct answers: each correct answer is worth 1 point, while incorrect, incomplete, or missing answers are worth 0 points. Should the student opt for the oral examination after passing the written test, the criteria for assigning the final grade will be as follows:
- 18–19: preparation covering a very limited number of topics; analytical ability present only with the instructor's support; generally correct use of language.
- 20–24: preparation covering a limited number of topics; independent analytical ability limited to procedural matters; correct language use.
- 25–29: preparation covering a wide range of topics; independent critical analysis skills; good command of specific terminology.
- 30: comprehensive preparation on all course topics; critical independence in analysis and in connecting concepts; full command of disciplinary language and strong argumentative and reflective skills. 30 *cum laude*: a comprehensive and integrated view of the topics covered; critical and informed application of knowledge; ability to draw sophisticated connections; excellent command of language and expression, including the use of specialized terminology.
The exams may be taken during the same session or in two different sessions (January-February; June-July; September; December).
This teaching module is worth 2 ECTS credits; therefore, the grade obtained will carry a weight of 2 within the integrated course. The grade will be multiplied by 2 and added to the grades from the other modules of the integrated course (each multiplied by its respective ECTS credits); the total will then be divided by the total number of ECTS credits for the integrated course (weighted average).
Students with learning disabilities or temporary/permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the dedicated office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti) as soon as possible to agree upon appropriate compensatory measures. Requests must be submitted to the lecturer in advance (15 days prior to the exam date); the lecturer will assess the suitability of the measures in light of the course's learning objectives.
To take the exam, students must register via the Almaesami system, strictly adhering to the established deadlines. Registration lists on Almaesami close two days before the start of each exam session.
Teaching tools
During the lessons, PowerPoint presentations and educational videos will be shown and exercises done on the blackboard.
Office hours
See the website of Angelo Davalli