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This paper presents the modelling and design of a constrained layer damper to eliminate squeal noise in a particular tram. Even though resilient wheels are installed in every bogie, squeal noise is generated at the frequency of 780–800 Hz due to the small radius curves that the tram has to draw. Tuned constrained layer dampers provide a solution to this particular problem. Butyl rubber is chosen as the viscoelastic material for the damper, and conventional steel is used for the metallic sheets. The modelling approach and the final design of the damper are presented, together with evaluation of its performance in a real application. Experimental measurements on track have demonstrated that the constrained layer damper is properly tuned to the squealing frequency and that there is a significant reduction in noise when the proposed damper is attached to the wheels.

In addition to the engineering knowledge base that has been traditionally taught, today's undergraduate engineering students need to be given the opportunity to practice a set of skills that will be demanded to them by future employers, namely: creativity, teamwork, problem solving, leadership and the ability to generate innovative ideas. In order to achieve this and educate engineers with both in-depth technical knowledge and professional skills, universities must carry out their own innovating and find suitable approaches that serve their students. This article presents a novel approach that involves university-industry collaboration. It is based on creating a student community for a particular company, allowing students to deal with real industry projects and apply what they are learning in the classroom. A sample project for the German sports brand adidas is presented, along with the project results and evaluation by students and teachers. The university-industry collaborative approach is shown to be beneficial for both students and industry.Keywords: Student community, multidisciplinary teamwork, creativity, motivation, university-industry collaboration. RESUMENAdemás de los conocimientos tradicionales sobre ingeniería, durante sus estudios los estudiantes universitarios requieren poder desarrollar una serie de habilidades críticas para su futuro profesional, tales como creatividad, trabajo en equipo, resolución de problemas, liderazgo e innovación. Por esto, es necesario que las universidades generen nuevas innovaciones en las metodologías de enseñanza. Este artículo presenta un avance en este ámbito, considerando una colaboración universidad-empresa. Esta innovación está basada en la creación de un grupo de trabajo de estudiantes para una empresa, con el objetivo de que los estudiantes pongan en práctica los conocimientos y las habilidades adquiridas en clase en proyectos industriales reales. A modo de ejemplo se presentan los resultados de un proyecto piloto para la empresa alemana adidas, además de la evaluación diagnóstica hecha por los estudiantes y los profesores participantes. De estos resultados se puede deducir que la colaboración entre universidad e industria es beneficiosa para los estudiantes y para la empresa.Palabras clave: Comunidad de estudiantes, trabajo en equipo multidisciplinario, creatividad, motivación, colaboración universidad-industria.