Shaping the Future of Design – From Digital Concept to Industrial Impact. Designing for Additive Manufacturing (AM) is more than just mastering a new technology – it’s about rethinking how we design entirely. In this two-part university internship, students explore how complexity, customizability, and digital workflows redefine what is possible in product development and manufacturing. The course combines a semester-long series of eight workshops with an intensive project week, blending methodical design training with real-world challenges from industry partners (for example sports engineering, aerospace, medical engineering and energy management).

Students learn to use CAD and simulation tools, apply advanced design methods such as topology optimization, and critically assess manufacturability and economic viability. The focus lies on designing with intent – creating solutions that are not only functional, but also visionary and feasible for AM. In interdisciplinary teams, students tackle a real use case provided by an industry partner. Supported through project-based learning, coaching, and peer feedback, they develop and present innovative, sustainable AM solutions. Throughout the course, students have access to MEX 3D printers at our lab to prototype their ideas and iterate on their designs.

The best solution concept will be selected and printed. The winning team will receive hands-on training to print their part themselves using AM powder bed technology (with either laser or electron beam). 

The full university internship awards 8 ECTS (4 ECTS for the workshops running throughout the semester, 4 ECTS for the Project Week). Students who register for the design challenge will automatically be enrolled in the workshop series.

Contact:  Claudia Geitner (MAT) and Jan Reimann (LBAM)
For: Bachelor’s and Master’s students from all disciplines and schools 
TUMonline module no.: ED170021
ECTS: 8
Period: whole semester
Application: Please write an email to the responsible people of contact with your current transcript of records and a current CV.