The SEMB group focuses its research efforts on four different sections or areas, but with possible fields of interaction. In the following lines, the four research areas and the subareas are presented:
- Development of mathematical models, potential maps and prototypes of radiative cooling devices and study of their technical feasibility.
- Study and development of next generation of renewable energy technologies based on high concentration solar systems.
- Development and spin-off creation of innovative solutions for advanced cooling of high heat flux in the field of microelectronic applications.
- Optimization of energy efficiency in buildings and industry with passive and active measures, such as: thermal insulation, thermal energy storage, renewable production of cold and heat, etc.
Design and Optimisation of machinery:
- Development of an off-road multiple axle vehicle for rough terrain, such as forest areas or areas affected by natural disasters (research line begun about 12 years ago).
- Development of a sustainable seed-drill for regenerative agriculture (research line started about 3 years ago).
- Optimization of mechanical and mechatronic systems in agricultural machinery and in industrial equipment (research line started about 15 years ago).
- Mechanical development of an articulated three-blade rotor for a gyroplane-type drone (new research line).
- Investigation of innovative constructive systems and building materials with low environmental impact by applying Eco-design strategies and using Life Cycle Assessment and “Cradle to cradle” to their design.
- Simulation and evaluation of the thermal comfort of buildings with passive systems.
- Application of circular economy strategies in reusing and recycling unpolluted excavated soil from urban works for the construction of new districts with earth products.
Teaching innovation and research in STEM (Science, Technolgy, Engineering and Mathematics):
- Analysis of the methodology Inquiry Based Learning (IBL).
- Flipped learning methodologies.
- Learning and usage of English language in English-Medium Instruction (colaboration with the Language Research Group Cercle de Lingüística Aplicada (CLA).
- Virtual teaching in engineering lab practices.
- Dual Formation in Engineering.
The good coordination and good personal relationship among all the members of the group will facilitate the multidisciplinary and integral approach to projects, taking advantage from the know-how of the four areas in order to develop them with more success.
Transfer of technology
The members of SEMB have a strong expertise in collaboration with companies for technology transfer. Some examples of these collaborations in different topics are presented as follows:
- Development of projects of solar energy and solar collectors (Natural Gas, Abengoa, Unidad Manual).
- Development of equipment for the production of sanitary hot water (Ciatesa Technologies, SL).
- Energy optimization in buildings (Honeywell, Synthesia, Hispalyt, Ediltec).
- Energy optimization in industry (Plusfresc, ICAEN, Effienergy, R + D + I Eureka).
- Advice on the mechanization of new agricultural tasks (Ocean Almond, SL)
- Mechanical resistance tests of experimental surgical sutures (B Braun Surgical SA)