APRÈN. Portal de la producció docent del professorat de la UPC

El Trabajo Fin de Grado titulado “Estudio para la realización de un protocolo de mejoras en los procesos industriales para la construcción de maquinaria en la industria farmacéutica” se centra en el desarrollo de un protocolo que optimice procesos clave en Dara Pharma, una empresa de referencia en este sector. A través de un análisis detallado del estado actual de los procesos industriales, este estudio busca identificar áreas críticas de mejora y proponer soluciones que aseguren un incremento en la calidad, la eficiencia y la sostenibilidad económica. El proyecto tiene como objetivo general crear un protocolo estructurado que permita integrar de manera eficiente las fases de diseño, fabricación, control de calidad y validación, garantizando el cumplimiento de normativas como GMP e ISO. Para ello, se plantearon objetivos específicos como mejorar la eficiencia operativa, optimizar la fiabilidad de los equipos, reducir costos asociados a ineficiencias y asegurar la trazabilidad del proceso. La metodología empleada incluye el análisis de datos operativos, auditorías internas y herramientas de mejora continua como Lean Manufacturing, FMEA y Kaizen. Estas herramientas permitieron identificar cuellos de botella en etapas críticas y definir estrategias específicas para abordarlos. Además, se incorporaron indicadores clave de desempeño (KPIs) y rúbricas de evaluación para validar la efectividad del protocolo. Los resultados del estudio son altamente positivos. El protocolo alcanzó un cumplimiento pleno de normativas regulatorias y logró un 97% de piezas conformes a los estándares de calidad, lo que redujo significativamente los costos derivados de reprocesos. Asimismo, se observó una reducción del 8% en los tiempos de fabricación y una trazabilidad del 100% en las acciones documentadas. Estos avances no solo mejoran la eficiencia y la sostenibilidad del proceso, sino que también consolidan la posición de Dara Pharma como un referente en el sector. En conclusión, este protocolo se presenta como una herramienta estratégica que garantiza la optimización de los procesos industriales, contribuyendo a la calidad de la producción y al ahorro económico. Su implementación no solo responde a las demandas actuales de la industria farmacéutica, sino que también establece una base sólida para futuros desafíos, posicionando a Dara Pharma como líder en innovación y excelencia operativa.

This paper focuses on the PRIMA SURENEXUS project, which addresses the interconnection of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus and the integration of energy recovery technologies. A comprehensive analysis of data from scientific articles, accessed through platforms such as Web of Science, MDPI, and other official sources, was conducted to explore these interconnections. This study aligns with recent scientific efforts to tackle critical global challenges, including water scarcity, food and energy insecurity, and ecosystem degradation, which are particularly pronounced in the Mediterranean region. The research emphasizes the use of NECADA, a simulation software developed by UPC-INLAB that incorporates an AI-driven WEFE Nexus model. NECADA integrates databases of compensations, designed to optimize trade-offs by balancing competing priorities across the 4 pillars of WEFE Nexus. By leveraging input and output parameters, the module identifies strategies that enhance synergies, mitigate trade-offs, and ensure sustainable resource management. This paper highlights how NECADA database's compensation mechanisms and energy recovery technologies contribute to addressing the Mediterranean region's sustainability challenges, enabling decision-makers to implement solutions that optimize efficiency and preserve ecological integrity.

The circular bioeconomy, the WEFE Nexus approach (water-energy-food-ecosystems), and the SureNexus project are interconnected in their goal of addressing the challenges of natural resource management and climate change adaptation in an integrated and sustainable manner. The circular bioeconomy drives the valorization of biomass and waste, promoting the circular economy and minimizing waste. In turn, the WEFE Nexus optimizes the interrelations between water, energy, food, and ecosystems, reducing sectoral conflicts and improving efficiency. The SureNexus project combines both approaches by implementing nature-based and bioeconomy solutions, supported by artificial intelligence, to ensure a fair transition toward sustainable development in the Mediterranean. This report highlights three key bioeconomic technologies: biodigester, solar water heater, and mobile solar dehydrator. These solutions are analyzed within the context of the WEFE Nexus and their applicability in SureNexus, including the creation of specific indicators for their modeling in AI tools. This approach enables the evaluation and optimization of their impact on the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of the communities where they are implemented, laying the groundwork for more efficient and equitable resource management.

Las misiones de teledetección enfrentan importantes desafíos en la planificación y programación de observaciones científicas debido a restricciones como energía limitada, capacidad de almacenamiento de datos, ancho de banda de comunicación y ventanas de observación. Estas limitaciones se ven agravadas por los entornos operativos complejos de los sistemas planetarios, lo que requiere una optimización precisa para maximizar el retorno científico. Esta tesis explora el desarrollo y la aplicación de Algoritmos Genéticos Multiobjetivo (MOGAs, por sus siglas en inglés) para optimizar los horarios de observación en misiones espaciales, centrándose específicamente en los 7 sobrevuelos de la misión JUpiter ICy moons Explorer (JUICE) alrededor de Ganímedes, la luna más grande de Júpiter. Se supone que la nave espacial está equipada con dos cámaras idénticas a JANUS, cada una con 141 regiones de interés por observar. El objetivo principal es demostrar cómo las técnicas de optimización computacional pueden mejorar la planificación y programación de observaciones científicas, abordando las restricciones y complejidades inherentes a las misiones espaciales. La metodología integra algoritmos genéticos multiobjetivo con marcos de optimización basados en Python y el toolkit SPICE de la NASA. Estas herramientas permiten gestionar de forma sistemática múltiples objetivos, como maximizar el retorno científico mientras se cumplen las restricciones de la misión, incluidas las ventanas de observación y los requisitos específicos de los instrumentos. La investigación emplea el concepto de frente de Pareto para garantizar un equilibrio eficaz entre objetivos en conflicto. Además, se aborda el problema de Area coverage Planning, que implica optimizar la cobertura de regiones específicas de interés en la superficie de un planeta utilizando cámaras a bordo. Simulando escenarios de observación realistas, este componente mejora la capacidad del algoritmo para evaluar horarios factibles de manera eficiente. Los resultados de los casos de prueba validan los operadores evolutivos desarrollados para este estudio, demostrando su capacidad para generar horarios optimizados. El caso de estudio de los sobrevuelos de Ganímedes durante la misión JUICE se utiliza para ilustrar cómo los MOGAs identifican compromisos entre prioridades científicas, como maximizar la resolución de imágenes y la cobertura de superficie, mientras se asegura la viabilidad de las restricciones operativas. Los resultados destacan la flexibilidad de los algoritmos para abordar los desafíos de programación en misiones de exploración planetaria. Este trabajo también dedica un análisis detallado a los aspectos ambientales y sociales de la investigación. El estudio enfatiza el potencial de las técnicas computacionales para promover la sostenibilidad al minimizar el uso de recursos y las ineficiencias operativas. Además, subraya la importancia de la colaboración entre agencias espaciales, investigadores e ingenieros para avanzar en la planificación de misiones. En conclusión, esta tesis demuestra que los MOGAs ofrecen una solución robusta para optimizar los horarios de observación en misiones espaciales. Los hallazgos contribuyen al desarrollo continuo de herramientas avanzadas para la planificación de misiones y sientan las bases para futuras aplicaciones tanto en la exploración espacial como en otros dominios científicos.

La planificación y programación de observaciones científicas en misiones espaciales presentan desafíos complejos debido a las restricciones operativas, como recursos limitados, ventanas de tiempo estrictas y la necesidad de maximizar el retorno científico. Esta tesis se centra en desarrollar heurísticas de optimización, específicamente utilizando Algoritmos Genéticos (AG), para abordar estos desafíos. El estudio utiliza como referencia la misión JUICE de la ESA, con un enfoque particular en la cámara multiespectral JANUS, encargada de observar 141 Regiones de Interés (ROIs) en Ganímedes durante múltiples sobrevuelos. La investigación integra metodologías avanzadas, como el algoritmo de mosaico Online Frontier Repair, para mejorar la precisión en la programación de observaciones y en la evaluación de la calidad. Este algoritmo se combina con marcos de optimización basados en Python y el kit de herramientas SPICE de la NASA para garantizar un manejo robusto de los datos y las restricciones de la misión. Además, se emplea lógica multiagente para mejorar la eficiencia computacional y la calidad de las soluciones. La metodología fue validada mediante un enfoque de dos pasos: pruebas iniciales en ROIs individuales para verificar la funcionalidad del algoritmo, seguidas de una programación integral de todas las ROIs de Ganímedes. Los resultados demostraron la eficacia de las herramientas propuestas para generar programas optimizados que respetan las restricciones geométricas y temporales. Las comparaciones con aproximaciones previas revelaron mejoras en la calidad de las observaciones y en la precisión de la programación. Este trabajo destaca el potencial de los Algoritmos Genéticos para simplificar y mejorar la planificación de misiones espaciales, proporcionando a los planificadores herramientas eficientes para optimizar problemas complejos de programación. Los hallazgos subrayan la importancia de integrar técnicas computacionales avanzadas para maximizar los resultados científicos cumpliendo con las restricciones de la misión.

This thesis is based on the study of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors that affect asset and facility management. It takes into account all the assets implicated in the environmental control and preservation by enterprises. These aspects are to be considered as a guide for the identification of all the actions that a company has to face when it comes to environmental management and supervision. This project, as a matter of fact, applies to define the environmental and biodiversity policies for a specific company, CIRSA. These policies will contribute in managing the environmental risks, the operational management improvement and the current regulation compliance. These protocols will promote sustainability and innovation, increasing the Company's positive reputation, creating value for CIRSA and the entire society. The approach used to reach these goals has been a continuous analysis of CIRSA from an environmental point of view, focusing on the Company's operations that should be monitored and improved. This study leads to the proposal of proper mitigating actions that the Company should perform in order to achieve the goals established in these two policies. These policies will help CIRSA to comply with ESG criteria in the environmental area, highlighting the right path to follow to reach efficiency and sustainability.

In this research paper the cultural differences about the consumption of cow meat and fishing products between the generation Z of Buenos Aires and Catalunya will be analyzed. Along the paper we will seek to understand these differences and thus arrive at a series of conclusions that will ultimately lead to relevant suggestions for the respective governments and industries. The definition of the problem, the population and objectives of the research were established. Then, secondary and primary investigations, both qualitative and quantitative, were carried out. For the studied population, the geographical and demographic variables that affect young Catalans and those from Buenos Aires are discussed. Finally, the objectives for the quantitative and qualitative section are detailed. For the qualitative investigation, two semi-structured interviews were carried out, with a young Catalan and another with a young man from Buenos Aires. The interviews revealed different eating habits between the two and their personal relationships between their social lives and their consumption of both foods. For the quantitative investigation, a survey was carried out, which was answered by 241 people of generation Z. The survey results confirmed much of what was found in the qualitative research. In addition, the survey allowed a comment on the topic, which was of high interest for the analysis and subsequent conclusions. When analyzing the results, three conclusions were reached that were considered most relevant. The first discussed the difference that exists between the consumption of beef and fishing products in Buenos Aires and Catalunya. The second examines the social aspect related to the consumption of both foods. And the third deals with the perception of the environmental and health impact that both foods have for young people. Finally, a series of recommendations were made for the respective governments as well as both beef and fishing industries.

This research focuses on the consumer behavior of Generation Z regarding the accessibility and costs of healthy and processed snacks in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Catalonia, Spain. The main objective of the study was to understand the consumption preferences and the factors that influence the purchasing decisions of these young consumers, identifying opportunities to promote healthier eating habits. The objective was to analyze the snack consumption preferences of Generation Z in both regions and determine how marketing, accessibility, and the perception of nutritional information influence these preferences. Additionally, strategies were sought to increase the adoption of healthy snacks. A survey was designed and applied to a representative group of Generation Z in Buenos Aires and Catalonia, as well as a semi-structured survey. The questions included aspects related to the frequency of purchase of healthy and processed snacks, the influence of marketing, the clarity of nutritional information, and the accessibility of these products. The data obtained were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively to identify significant patterns and trends. The analysis revealed several key conclusions: 1. Preference for Processed Snacks: Processed snacks are more common among Generation Z in both regions, due to their taste, convenience, and effective marketing strategies. 2. High Availability of Processed Snacks: A significant portion of respondents considers that processed snacks are widely distributed in the market, facilitating their acquisition and contributing to their popularity. 3. Perception of Nutritional Information: There is a significant variation in the perception of nutritional information between Buenos Aires and Catalonia. In Buenos Aires, many consumers consider the information to be unclear and imprecise, while in Catalonia, this information is perceived as clearer and more satisfactory. To address these findings, recommendations were made for both companies and governments. From an economic standpoint, it is recommended to incentivize the production and distribution of healthy snacks through subsidies and tax exemptions, invest in research and development, and support small and medium-sized local businesses. Implementing competitive pricing strategies and loyalty programs can also encourage a change in purchasing behavior

Due to the growing importance of electronics in vehicles in the current industrial scenario, hence, the main aim of taking up and working on this project was to completely understand the working and modelling of the electrical and electronic components present in electric vehicles like motors, inverters and controllers. The main objective and motivation behind the development of this project is to develop a motor control system consisting of all the important components like Motor Controller, Inverter and Transmission. This system must not be vehicle or condition specific. Instead, it must be easily adaptable to any vehicle or driving conditions, so that the time of development will be minimum. The changes required to be done when changing the vehicle under consideration must be as minimal as possible. Hence, just the parameters of the model components must be altered, so as to ensure the working of the entire model. The main work associated with this project is the development of the above-mentioned generalized motor control system in SIMULINK and upon completion of the model running the simulation of this model considering different test cases and driving cycles.

Innovation is essential in today's corporate environment to maintain competitiveness, stimulate development, and satisfy changing consumer demands. To make the most of the possibilities of innovation, established systems must be managed effectively. The standard ISO 56002 provides recommendations for Innovation Management Systems to assist companies in their innovation endeavors. It offers a structure for developing, putting into execution, and enhancing innovation management practices. This standard looks at how leadership and innovation management interact. Leadership practices are brought into harmony with innovation by ISO 56002, which also empowers teams, encourages creativity, and offers guidance for creative development. The interconnected trio of leadership, innovation, and innovation management forms the backbone of modern companies, propelling progress and product evolution. Recognizing this importance and prioritizing innovation management is crucial, with effective leadership fostering an innovative environment. The purpose of this research is to investigate the relationship between innovation management and leadership.

This thesis presents a comprehensive analysis of the effectiveness of U-space implementation in Europe, with a specific focus on Croatia, considering its impact on safety, efficiency, and economy. By examining the regulatory framework, the roles of U-space service providers, and demonstrations and trials conducted, this research evaluates the progress and challenges of U-space adoption. The major findings of the analysis reveal the positive impact of U-space on safety, enhancing the integration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) into the airspace while upholding robust safety standards. The evaluation of efficiency demonstrates improved airspace utilization, optimized UAS operations, and cost and time savings through effective U-space management. It is highlighted that the key factor in implementation progress on national base is successful stakeholder collaboration. The countries that have launched projects on national bases lead by their air navigations service providers have shown the biggest advance in implementing U-space. A great example is Croatia's AMC portal through which Croatia successfully implemented most of its U-space services. Furthermore, the thesis explores the economic and environmental benefits of U-space implementation. It highlights the potential of U-space to drive productivity gains, new business models and services and innovation. Through stakeholder collaboration, involving UAS operators, regulatory authorities, and industry representatives, this research provides valuable insights into U-space implementation in Croatia. It significantly contributes to the knowledge base in this field and offers practical recommendations for enhancing U-space strategies.