Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2012

Computational Science and Engineering Master Information
Core Courses and Compensatory Courses
Core Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-3632-00LComputational Statistics Information O10 credits3V + 2UM. Mächler, P. L. Bühlmann
Abstract"Computational Statistics" deals with modern methods of data analysis for prediction and inference. An overview of existing methodology is provided and also by the exercises, the student is taught to choose among possible models and about their algorithms and to Validate them using graphical methods and simulation based approaches.
ObjectiveGetting to know modern methods of data analysis for prediction and inference.
Learn to choose among possible models and about their algorithms.
Validate them using graphical methods and simulation based approaches.
ContentCourse Synopsis:
multiple regression, nonparametric methods for regression and classification (kernel estimates, smoothing splines, regression and classification trees, additive models, projection pursuit, neural nets, ridging and the lasso, boosting). Problems of interpretation, reliable prediction and the curse of dimensionality are dealt with using resampling, bootstrap and cross validation.
Details are available via Link .

Exercises will be based on the open-source statistics software R (Link). Emphasis will be put on applied problems. Active participation in the exercises is strongly recommended.
More details are available via the webpage Link (-> "Computational Statistics").
Lecture noteslecture notes are available online; see
Link (-> "Computational Statistics").
Literature(see the link above, and the lecture notes)
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic "applied" mathematical calculus and linear algebra.
At least one semester of (basic) probability and statistics.
Compensatory Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
252-0574-00LSpatiotemporal Modeling and Simulation
This course unit is offered for the last time.
W5 credits2V + 2UI. Sbalzarini
AbstractThis course teaches modeling techniques for spatially resolved systems. You will learn to account for the geometry of a system and for transport in space. After repetition of the basics from mathematics and physics, you will model processes such as diffusion, waves, and flow, and simulate them in the computer.
Objective- Analysis of the dynamic behavior of biological or physical systems with spatial structure
- Formulation of model of the system behavior
- Computer simulation of the model using numerical methods

We focus on biological systems. The taught methods and concepts are, however, applicable in a much broader sense.
ContentDimensionality analysis, causality diagrams, vector fields, governing equations for diffusion, flow, and waves, hybrid particle-mesh methods for computer simulations, student project: simulation of a biological system.
See course web page for complete syllabus: Link
Lecture notesLecture notes (Skript) written in English are available and will be handed out chapter-wise during the semester.
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic knowledge in vector analysis is required (simple integrals, complete and partial derivatives, gradient, divergence, curl). Core course in the specialized Master in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics (Link)
Fields of Specialization
Astrophysics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0394-00LTheoretical Astrophysics and CosmologyW10 credits3V + 2UU. Seljak
AbstractThis is the second of a two course series which started with "General Relativity" and continues in the spring with "Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology", where the focus will be on applying general relativity to cosmology.
Objective
ContentHere is the rough plan of the topics we plan to cover. The actual pace may vary relative to this plan.

Week 1: overview of homogeneous cosmology I: spacetime geometry, redshift, Hubble law, distances
Week 2: overview of homogeneous cosmology I: dynamics of expansion, accelerated expansion, horizons
Week 3: thermal history of the universe and recombination
Week 4: cosmic microwave background anisotropies I: first look
Week 5: creation of matter: baryogenesis
Week 6: creation of nuclei: nucleosynthesis
Week 7: cold dark matter
Week 8: inflation: homogeneous limit
Week 9: relativistic perturbation theory I
Week 10: relativistic perturbation theory II
Week 11: cosmic microwave background anisotropies II: scalar and tensor modes
Week 12: cosmic microwave background anisotropies III: polarization
Week 13: structure formation
Week 14: gravitational lensing
Week 15: inflation and initial perturbations in the universe
LiteratureSuggested textbooks:
primary textbook: S. Weinberg, Cosmology
secondary textbooks: R. Durrer, The cosmic microwave background
V. Mukhanov: Physical Foundations of Cosmology
E. W. Kolb and M. S. Turner: The Early Universe
S. Carroll: An introduction to General Relativity Spacetime and Geometry
N. Straumann: General relativity with applications to astrophysics
S. Dodelson: Modern Cosmology
A. Liddle and D. Lyth: Cosmological Inflation and Large Scale Structure
Prerequisites / Noticeweb site: Link
Physics of the Atmosphere
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
701-1216-00LNumerical Modelling of Weather and ClimateW4 credits3GC. Schär, U. Lohmann
AbstractThe guiding principle of this lecture is that students can understand how weather and climate models are formulated from the governing physical principles and how they are used for climate and weather prediction purposes.
ObjectiveThe guiding principle of this lecture is that students can understand how weather and climate models are formulated from the governing physical principles and how they are used for climate and weather prediction purposes.
ContentThe course provides an introduction into the following themes: numerical methods (finite differences and spectral methods); adiabatic formulation of atmospheric models (vertical coordinates, hydrostatic approximation); parameterization of physical processes (e.g. clouds, convection, boundary layer, radiation); atmospheric data assimilation and weather prediction; predictability (chaos-theory, ensemble methods); climate models (coupled atmospheric, oceanic and biogeochemical models); climate prediction.

Hands-on experience with simple models will be acquired in the tutorials.
Lecture notesSlides and lecture notes will be made available at
Link
LiteratureList of literature will be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: to follow this course, you need some basic background in numerical methods (e.g., "Numerische Methoden in der Umweltphysik", 701-0461-00L)
651-4053-03LBoundary Layer Meteorology and Air Pollution Modeling: Part IIW2 credits2GM. Rotach, J. Schmidli
AbstractThe Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) as the lowest atmospheric layer constitutes the interface between the atmosphere and the Earth's surface. Theory on transport processes in the PBL and their dynamics is provided. Also dispersion modeling of pollutants is discussed. Part II completes the theoretical background and focuses on non-ideal applications and extensions.
ObjectiveOverall goals of this course are given below. Part II focuses on non-ideal applications.
Students have basic knowledge on atmospheric turbulence and theoretical as well as practical approaches to treat Planetary Boundary Layer flows. They are familiar with the relevant processes (turbulent transport, forcing) within and typical states of the Planetary Boundary Layer. Idealized concepts are known as well as their adaptations under real surface conditions (as for example over complex topography). Different types of atmospheric dispersion models are known including their underlying assumptions, capabilities, drawbacks and advantages.
Content- Conservation equations in a turbulent flow
- Closure problem and closure assumptions
- Spectral characteristics
- Concepts for non-ideal boundary layer conditions
- Eulerian and Lagrangian pollutant dispersion models
- Applications in dispersion modeling
- Examples from urban and terrain-influenced boundary layers and air pollution modeling.
Lecture notesavailable
Literature- Stull, R.B.: 1988, "An Introduction to Boundary Layer Meteorology", (Kluwer), 666 pp.
- Panofsky, H. A. and Dutton, J.A.: 1984, "Atmospheric Turbulence, Models and Methods for Engineering Applications", (J. Wiley), 397 pp.
- Kaimal JC and Finningan JJ: 1994, Atmospheric Boundary Layer Flows, Oxford University Press, 289 pp.
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Boundary Layer Meteorology and Pollutant transport, Part I
651-4802-00LNumerical Models in GlaciologyW4 credits3GM. Lüthi
AbstractIntroduction of the mechanics and thermodynamics of cryospheric systems, such as glaciers and sea ice, and their mathematical formulation in view of the numerical modeling of the system. Examples of numerical models of glacier flow are applied to specific problems. Exercises include the application of numerical models and the design and coding of additional model parts to include new processes.
ObjectiveTraining in the formulation of a numerical model of a cryospheric system, including the mathematical formulation of the relevant physical processes, scaling, simplifications, algorithmic formulation, coding and testing.
ContentFlow of glacier ice, scaling and approximations of the governing equations, energy flow through sea ice, growth and decay of sea ice, specific numerical methods and algorithms.
Lecture notesin preparation, will be distributed
Prerequisites / NoticePre-requisite:
Physics of Glaciers I (651-4101-00) is strongly recommended
matlab is recommended
401-5930-00LSeminar in Physics of the Atmosphere for CSEW4 credits2SC. Schär
AbstractIn this seminar the knowledge exchange between you and the other students is promoted. Reading classic as well as recent important articles scientific writing and presenting is trained. Further, the concept or preliminary results of the master thesis are presented.
ObjectiveIn this seminar the knowledge exchange between you and the other students is promoted. Reading classic as well as recent important articles scientific writing and presenting is trained. Further, the concept or preliminary results of the master thesis are presented.
Chemistry and Biology
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
529-0474-00LQuantum ChemistryW6 credits3GM. Reiher, H. P. Lüthi, M. T. Stiebritz
AbstractBasic concepts and methods of quantum chemistry; Introduction to electronic structure theory. Exercises and some case studies using quantum chemical software.
ObjectiveIntroduction to theory, methods, and algorithms for the description of many-electron systems (i.e., atoms and molecules).
ContentBasic concepts of quantum mechanics. Derivation of a many-electron theory for atoms and molecules. Quantum chemical methods: ab initio, density functional theory methods, manipulation of quantum chemical software, Hartree-Fock self consistent field (SCF) methods, electron correlation. Case studies using quantum mechanical software.
Lecture noteshand outs
LiteratureLehrbücher:
F.L. Pilar, Elementary Quantum Chemistry, Dover Publications
I.N. Levine, Quantum Chemistry, Prentice Hall

Hartree-Fock in Basisdarstellung:
A. Szabo and N. Ostlund, Modern Quantum Chemistry: Introduction to Advanced Electronic Structure Theory, McGraw-Hill

Bücher zur Computerchemie:
F. Jensen, Introduction to Computational Chemistry, John Wiley & Sons
C.J. Cramer, Essentials of Computational Chemistry, John Wiley & Sons
Prerequisites / Noticegünstige Voraussetzungen: Einführende Vorlesung in Quantenmechanik (z.B. Physikalische Chemie III: Quantenmechanik), Informatikgestützte Chemie I
327-0613-00LComputer Applications: Finite Elements in Solids and Structures
Does not take place this semester.
W4 credits2V + 2UA. Gusev
AbstractTo introduce the Finite Element Method to the students with a general interest in the topic
ObjectiveTo introduce the Finite Element Method to the students with a general interest in the topic
ContentIntroduction; Energy formulations; Displacement finite elements; Solutions to the finite element equations; Linear elements; Convergence, compatibility and completeness; Higher order elements; Beam and frame elements, Plate and shell elements; Dynamics and vibration; Generalization of the Finite Element concepts (Galerkin-weighted residual and variational approaches)
Lecture notesAutographie
Literature- Astley R.J. Finite Elements in Solids and Structures, Chapman & Hill, 1992
- Zienkiewicz O.C., Taylor R.L. The Finite Element Method, 5th ed., vol. 1, Butterworth-Heinemann, 2000
401-5940-00LSeminar in Chemistry and Biology for CSEW4 credits2SW. F. van Gunsteren
AbstractThe student will carry out a literature study on a topic of his or her liking or suggested by the supervisor in the area of computer simulation in chemistry and biology, the results of which are to be presented both orally and in written form.
Objective
Fluid Dynamics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
151-0212-00LAdvanced CFD MethodsO4 credits2V + 1UP. Jenny
AbstractIn this class we will discuss algorithms used in commercial CFD codes. The topics of the first two block are a theoretical analysis of hyperbolic conservation laws and finite-volume methods, which are the most common approach to solve the Navier-Stokes equations. Among the further topics an introduction to the commercial CFD code Star-CD will be given.
ObjectiveApplication oriented approach to the solution of fluid dynamics problems
ContentContent:
- Finite-volume and finite-element methods
- Pressure correction schemes
- Solution methods, multigrid methods
- Turbulence models
- Commercial CFD code: Star-CD
- Grid generation (structured, unstructured and multiblock)
- Particle (vortex) methods (Lagrangian discretization)
- Theory of hyperbolic conservation laws
- Computational homeworks
Lecture notesParts of the course is based on the book "Computational Fluid Dynamics" by H. K. Versteeg and W. Malalasekera. In addition, we hand out a manuscript, which contains not all the course material, however.
Literature"Computational Fluid Dynamics" by H. K. Versteeg and W. Malalasekera.
151-0208-00LComputational Methods for Flow, Heat and Mass Transfer Problems Information W4 credits2V + 2UL. Kleiser
AbstractNumerical methods for the solution of flow, heat and mass transfer problems are presented and practised by analytical and computer solutions for simple examples.
Subjects: solution process, physical and mathematical models, basic equations, discretization methods, numerical solution of advection, diffusion and Poisson equations, turbulent flows.
ObjectiveKnowledge of and practical experience with important discretisation and solution methods for Computational Fluid Dynamics, Heat and Mass Transfer Problems
ContentAufbauend auf den Lehrveranstaltungen über Fluiddynamik, Thermodynamik, Numerische Mathematik (benötigtes Wahlfach, 4. Semester) und Informatik I (Programmieren) werden numerische Methoden für Berechnungsaufgaben der Fluiddynamik, Energie- und Verfahrenstechnik dargestellt und an einfachen Beispielen geübt.

1. Einleitung
Uebersicht, Anwendungen
Problemlösungsprozess, Fehler
2. Rekapitulation der Grundgleichungen
Formulierung, Anfangs- und Randbedingungen
3. Numerische Diskretisierungsverfahren
Finite-Differenzen- und Finite-Volumen-Verfahren
Grundbegriffe: Konsistenz, Stabilität, Konvergenz
4. Lösung der grundlegenden Gleichungstypen
Wärmeleitungs/Diffusionsgleichung (parabolisch)
Poisson-Gleichung (elliptisch)
Advektionsgleichung/Wellengleichung (hyperbolisch)
und Advektions-Diffusions-Gleichung
5. Berechnung inkompressibler Strömungen
6. Berechnung turbulenter Strömungen
Lecture notesLecture notes are available (in German)
Literaturea list of references is supplied
Prerequisites / NoticeIt is crucial to actively solve the analytical and practical (programming) exercises.
151-0114-00LTurbulence ModelingW4 credits2V + 1UP. Jenny
AbstractIn the study of turbulent flows the objective is to obtain a tractable quantitative theory or model to calculate quantities of interest. A century of expertise has shown the 'turbulence problem' to be notoriously difficult, and there are no prospects of a simple analytic theory. In this class, five of the leading computational approaches to turbulent flows are described and examined.
ObjectiveThe goal of this class is to give an good overview of current turbulence modeling approaches, but also to help developing a feeling for advantages and limitations of the various classes of models.
Content1. Introduction to Modeling:
The goal here is to present an overview of different approaches,
point out the main challenges and discuss general criteria for turbulence models
2. Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS):
After the basics of DNS are introduced, applications to homogeneous and
inhomogeneous turbulent flows are discussed.
3. Turbulent-Viscosity Models:
The implications due to the underlying assumption, the turbulent viscosity
hypothesis, are explained and discussed. Then, specific models belonging to the
classes of algebraic, one-equation and two-equation models are introduced.
4. Reynolds-Stress Models:
After a brief discussion of the concept and the advantage above
turbulent-viscosity models, most of the time will be spent for "return-to-isotropy
models, near-wall treatments and algebraic stress models.
5. Probability Density Function (PDF) Methods:
This part is at the center of this class. First, the concept of PDF modeling
is explained and the PDF transport equation is derived, discussed and analyzed.
It is shown that turbulent transport and reaction source terms appear in closed
form. However, models are required to close other terms. Then, consistent
Lagrangean models are presented. Using these equations and models, corresponding
Reynolds-stress models are derived. It is demonstrated how the PDF transport
equation can be used to analyze turbulent flows, even without using the PDF approach
for simulations.
6. Large-Eddy Simulation (LES)
The basic concepts of LES are introduced. After a discussion of filtering, the filtered
conservation equations are derived. As an example of a sub-grid model the
Smagorinsky model is presented and finally the perspectives of LES are discussed.
Lecture notesThe course is partly based on part two of the book "Turbulent Flows" by Stephen B. Pope published by Cambridge University Press, 2000. In addition, we hand out a manuscript, which contains not all the course material, however.
LiteratureS. B. Pope, Turbulent Flows, Cambridge University Press, 2000
151-0218-00LHydrodynamic Stability and Transition Information W4 credits2V + 1UL. Kleiser, D. Obrist
AbstractIntroduction to flow stability, bifurcation and transition to turbulence. Linear stability theory of parallel shear flows including inviscid and viscous instabilities. Concepts of temporal/spatial, local/global, absolute/convective instabilities. Stability results and transition mechanisms for specific flows, such as free shear, channel, boundary-layer and stratified flows.
ObjectiveA basic understanding of the primary concepts of hydrodynamic stability and transition to turbulence. Knowledge of stability results and transition processes in several standard flows such as free shear, boundary layer and stratified flows. Ability to apply the basic mathematical framework of linear stability theory.
ContentThis course gives an introduction to the most relevant instability mechanisms and transition processes in incompressible flows. Starting with the basic framework of linear stability theory, we will discuss the stability of several flow configurations of increasing complexity, e.g. free shear flows, 2D and 3D boundary layers and stratified flows. We will introduce the basic mathematical concepts and derive important theoretical results (Rayleigh and Orr-Sommerfeld equations, stability charts). The discussion of linear stability will be followed by a consideration of the laminar-turbulent transition process for selected flows. Different transition scenarios will be studied for technically relevant flows.
Lecture notesShort lecture notes will be provided during the course.
LiteratureA list of references will be given on the course webpage.
Prerequisites / NoticeTestat is required for exam admission (see course webpage).
401-5950-00LSeminar in Fluid Dynamics for CSE Restricted registration - show details W4 credits2SP. Jenny, L. Kleiser
AbstractEnlarged knowledge and practical abilities in fundamentals and applications of Computational Fluid Dynamics
Objective
Prerequisites / NoticePlease register online no later than 2 week before the semester begins
Control Theory
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-0216-00LControl Systems IIW6 credits4GR. Smith
AbstractIntroduction to basic and advanced concepts of modern feedback control.
ObjectiveIntroduction to basic and advanced concepts of modern feedback control.
ContentThis course is designed as a direct continuation of the course "Regelsysteme" (Control Systems). The primary goal is to further familiarize students with various dynamic phenomena and their implications for the analysis and design of feedback controllers. Simplifying assumptions on the underlying plant that were made in the course "Regelsysteme" are relaxed, and advanced concepts and techniques that allow the treatment of typical industrial control problems are presented. Topics include control of systems with multiple inputs and outputs, control of uncertain systems (robustness issues), limits of achievable performance, and controller implementation issues.
Lecture notesCopy of transparencies
LiteratureSkogestad, Postlethwaite: Multivariable Feedback Control - Analysis and Design. Second Edition. John Wiley, 2005.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites:
Control Systems or equivalent
Robotics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
151-0854-00LAutonomous Mobile Robots Information O4 credits2V + 1UR. Siegwart, M. Chli, M. Rufli, D. Scaramuzza
AbstractThe objective of this course is to provide the basics required to develop autonomous mobile robots and systems. Main emphasis is put on mobile robot locomotion and kinematics, envionmen perception, and probabilistic environment modeling, localizatoin, mapping and navigation. Theory will be deepened by exercises with small mobile robots and discussed accross application examples.
ObjectiveThe objective of this course is to provide the basics required to develop autonomous mobile robots and systems. Main emphasis is put on mobile robot locomotion and kinematics, envionmen perception, and probabilistic environment modeling, localizatoin, mapping and navigation.
Lecture notesIntroduction to Autonomous Mobile Robots. Siegwart, R. and Nourbakhsh, I. (2004), A Bradford Book, The MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts, London, England
151-0566-00LRecursive Estimation Information W4 credits2V + 1UR. D'Andrea
AbstractEstimation of the state of a dynamic system based on a model and observations in a computationally efficient way.
ObjectiveLearn the basic recursive estimation methods and their underlying principles.
ContentProbability review; Bayes theorem; introduction to estimation; recursive estimation using Bayes theorem; standard Kalman filter; extended Kalman filter; particle filtering; observers and the separation principle.
Lecture notesLecture notes available on course website.
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Introductory probability theory and matrix-vector algebra.
401-5860-00LSeminar in Robotics for CSEW4 credits2SF. Iida
AbstractThis course provides an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the advanced topics of robotics and mechatronics research. The study plan has to be discussed with the lecturer based on your specific interests and/or the relevant seminar series such as the IRIS's Robotics Seminars and BiRONZ lectures, for example.
ObjectiveThe students are familiar with the challenges of the fascinating and interdisciplinary field of Robotics and Mechatronics. They are introduced in the basics of independent non-experimental scientific research and are able to summarize and to present the results efficiently.
ContentThis 4 ECTS course requires each student to discuss a study plan with the lecturer and select minimum 10 relevant scientific publications to read through, or attend 5-10 lectures of the public robotics oriented seminars (e.g. Public robotics seminars such as the IRIS's Robotics Seminars Link, and BiRONZ lectures Link are good examples). At the end of semester, the results should be presented in an oral presentation and summarized in a report, which takes the discussion of the presentation into account.
Theoretical Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0812-00LComputational Statistical Physics Information W8 credits2V + 2UH. J. Herrmann
AbstractComputer simulation methods in statistical physics. Classical Monte-Carlo-simulations: finite-size scaling, cluster algorithms, histogram-methods. Molecular dynamics simulations: long range interactions, Ewald summation, discrete elements, parallelization.
ObjectiveThe lecture will give a deeper insight into computer simulation methods in statistical physics. Thus, it is an ideal continuation of the lecture
"Introduction to Computational Physics" of the autumn semester focusing on the following topics. Classical Monte-Carlo-simulations: finite-size scaling, cluster algorithms, histogram-methods. Molecular dynamics simulations: long range interactions, Ewald summation, discrete elements, parallelization.
ContentComputer simulation methods in statistical physics.
Classical Monte-Carlo-simulations: finite-size scaling, cluster algorithms, histogram-methods. Molecular dynamics simulations: long range interactions, Ewald summation, discrete elements, parallelization.
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