73452 - Product Design T (A-K)

Academic Year 2025/2026

  • Moduli: Riccardo Varini (Modulo 1) Andreas Sicklinger (Modulo 2) Massimiliano Fantini (Modulo 3)
  • Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures (Modulo 1) Traditional lectures (Modulo 2) Traditional lectures (Modulo 3)
  • Campus: Bologna
  • Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Industrial Design (cod. 8182)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course module, the student, through the analysis of real cases of design problems—presented either in an extended format or through full-immersion experiences—and starting from the re-brief, is able to articulate the meta-design process, envision the design development pathway, identify the achievable margins of results, and elaborate an innovative product concept, ultimately arriving at a complete and complex design outcome in all its components.

Course contents

Module 1 of Design Methodology, conducted by Prof. Varini, aims to guide students in developing a project starting from the analysis of the context through to the product’s development and prototyping.

Module 2 of Design Methodology, conducted by Prof. Sicklinger, aims to provide a basic introduction to the principles of physical ergonomics, including concepts such as anthropometry, percentiles, posture physiology, and usability. These aspects are fundamental for industrial design projects, as they form the basis of the interaction between humans and objects, furniture, or space.

Teaching methods

An interactive approach and desk research method will be adopted. Lectures will alternate with assessment sessions. The instructor will act as a guide and coordinator of the activities, which are based on the self-determination of the contents.

Ability to Apply Knowledge and Understanding

The lectures are also designed to provide students with materials and tools that enable them to apply their knowledge and critically deepen their understanding in research areas related to interaction with artifacts.

Communication Skills

The teaching materials and the lectures will enable students to express themselves and argue appropriately and effectively on the topics addressed.

Learning Skills

The concepts and their application skills, assimilated through the lectures, must be enriched and further elaborated by the student during and at the end of the entire course of study, ensuring their thorough acquisition.

Assessment methods

Part of the lecture will be devoted to an in-depth review of the progress of the projects produced by the students. These projects will serve as the basis for assessing the acquisition of skills in line with the Course objectives. The laboratory includes intermediate evaluations and a final examination, which will assess the design output developed by the students.

Please note that attendance in the laboratory sessions is mandatory, and only students who have attended at least 70% of the classes will be allowed to take the final examination.

Teaching tools

Lectures (presentations/slideshows);
Reviews of students’ project progress

Office hours

See the website of Riccardo Varini

See the website of Andreas Sicklinger

See the website of Massimiliano Fantini