Vehicle Design Theory, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course provides in-depth theoretical knowledge about vehicles.

1. Vehicle technology, production and design, 6 credits.
   This part deals with specific methods of production that are typical of different types of transportation industry. Both large or small-scale production methods as well as their logistics. It also looks at legislation and standards for different vehicle types. The course part include additionally basic vehicle aerodynamics, hydrodynamics and methods of functioning. Applied theory of design and vehicle identification is presented.
2. Vehicle History, 1.5 credits.
   The course part includes both vehicle history as the transport system history.

Expected learning outcomes

After completing the course, students will be able to:

• describe the traditions and history behind the different types of vehicles.
• demonstrate an understanding of the processes involved in vehicle development.
• analyse the social, political and economic influences that affect the development of a vehicle.
• transform a given design icon from the past and adapt it to todays technological and global development.
• argue for the importance of brand identity and traditions and analyse the relationship between evolution and revolution in the automotive industry.

Required Knowledge

Univ: In order to be admitted to the course, students must have completed a BA in Industrial Design or the equivalent as well as all previous master courses on the Transportation Design Programme at Umeå Institute of Design or the equivalent.
Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B (IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 6.5 and no individual score below 5.5. TOEFL PBT (Paper-based Test) with a minimum score of 575 and a minimum TWE score of 4.5). TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) with a minimum score of 90 and a minimum score of 20 on the Writing Section). Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

Teaching is conducted through lectures, field trips, seminars and literature reviews. If possible, some parts of the course is sited to companies and institutions with resources that are suitable for practical training in the specific areas.

Examination modes

The examination takes place via written and oral presentations. Skills in project is also examined. Assignments are presented to the companies concerned. To pass the course, students must have completed all modules and functions. On each task and element as well as the whole course, the grades awarded either Pass (G) or Fail ( U).

Students who do not pass the regular examination can take additional examinations. A student who has failed two tests for a course or part of a class, are entitled to have another examiner appointed, unless there are special reasons to the contrary (HF Chapter 6. § 22). The request for a new examiner shall be made in writing to the Head of Department at Umeå Institute of Design.

ACADEMIC CREDIT TRANSFER
Students have the right to request that previous studies, or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in a professional, work-related capacity, be validated and transferred into credits on an equivalent course or programme at Umeå University.  Applications for credit transfer should be addressed to Student Services/Degree Evaluation Office. More information can be found at the Umeå University student web site (www.student.umu.se/english) and in Chapter 6 of the Higher Education Ordinance.  Appeals may be made to the Higher Education Appeals Board (ÖNH) against a decision by the university not to approve an application for credit transfer (Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 12), even in cases where only a part of the application has been rejected.