Collaboration between Spascat and ELISAVA on a Final Degree Project

Spascat collaborated with ELISAVA School of Design and Engineering on a Final Degree Project (TFG) with four students from the Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design Engineering. The project focused on “Garotes,” Spascat’s software for creating bathymetric maps in coastal areas with limited accessibility using satellite-derived bathymetry algorithms. These algorithms require ground truth data for calibration and validation, which Spascat typically acquires with its “Garota” IoT Buoy. The student team, comprising Màximo Piera, Jano Güell, Marc Espot, and Sergi Calzada, under the supervision of professors Xavi Riudor, Carles Araguz, and Pau Benazet, designed a system for collecting real bathymetric data points at sea. The solution consists of three integrated components:

• A radio-controlled surface vehicle equipped with sonar for data acquisition.
• A communication module for long-range connectivity, utilizing custom radiofrequency protocols and Bluetooth Low Energy.
• A mobile application for vehicle control, telemetry, and real-time data access.

The project also outlined future development, including the transition to an autonomous surface vehicle, integration of visualization tools such as heatmaps, and further calibration enhancements.

This collaboration aligns with Spascat’s engagement with local academic institutions and its support for applied research in marine technology. The TFG outcomes offer insights for advancing “Garotes” and illustrate the contribution of design engineering education to practical data collection and environmental monitoring challenges.