The event kicked off with a tour of the city of Hanover and the university campus organized by the students.
At the start of the project phase, Prof. Lachmayer, head of the IPeG, welcomed the guests from Penn State University to the mechanical engineering campus and opened the week with a keynote speech entitled “Beyond Borders: Engineering Sustainability,” which outlined the scientific framework. In the following group work phases, the students finalized their poster presentations and prototypes.
Guided tours of the UWTH and IPeG provided additional insights into the research areas of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. A highlight was the visit to cooperation partner Forvia. Dr. Reinecke, Division Engineering Director - R&D in the field of seating systems (FAS), explained the development process of modern car seats – from regulatory requirements and structural design to testing procedures and design decisions. The visit highlighted the multitude of technical and design parameters that must be precisely coordinated for series approval.
At the closing event, the four student teams presented their results to the scientific staff of the IPeG and interested students. The focus was on the further development of an electric toothbrush for specific target groups. The teams explained their sustainable optimization measures, addressed R strategies, and outlined the necessary next steps. The IPeG staff asked specific questions about the concept results, provided well-founded advice, and placed them in the context of sustainable product development.
In addition to the technical part of the project, joint cultural and sporting activities such as karaoke, the team game “Beat Your Team,” and a visit to an ice hockey game promoted social interaction and strengthened cohesion within the student teams. An evening trip to the Hanover Christmas market provided an opportunity for intercultural exchange in an atmospheric setting.
In the project recap, students and teachers discussed the course of the project and identified areas for improvement. The official farewell to the students took place at a farewell party in the campus brewery.
“The combination of international cooperation, intercultural learning, and online and in-person phases creates a solid foundation for efficient team processes and high-quality results. The project shows how scientific, cultural, and practical areas of experience can be synergistically linked to teach sustainable product development in a future-oriented way.”
Prof. S. Gore, T. Stauß, C. Wonnemann
