Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2012
Computational Science and Engineering Master | ||||||
Core Courses and Compensatory Courses | ||||||
Core Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
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401-3632-00L | Computational Statistics | O | 10 credits | 3V + 2U | M. 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. | |||||
Objective | Getting 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. | |||||
Content | Course 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 notes | lecture notes are available online; see Link (-> "Computational Statistics"). | |||||
Literature | (see the link above, and the lecture notes) | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Basic "applied" mathematical calculus and linear algebra. At least one semester of (basic) probability and statistics. | |||||
Compensatory Courses | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
252-0574-00L | Spatiotemporal Modeling and Simulation This course unit is offered for the last time. | W | 5 credits | 2V + 2U | I. Sbalzarini | |
Abstract | This 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. | |||||
Content | Dimensionality 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 notes | Lecture notes (Skript) written in English are available and will be handed out chapter-wise during the semester. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Basic 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 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
402-0394-00L | Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology | W | 10 credits | 3V + 2U | U. Seljak | |
Abstract | This 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 | ||||||
Content | Here 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 | |||||
Literature | Suggested 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 / Notice | web site: Link | |||||
Physics of the Atmosphere | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
701-1216-00L | Numerical Modelling of Weather and Climate | W | 4 credits | 3G | C. Schär, U. Lohmann | |
Abstract | The 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. | |||||
Objective | The 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. | |||||
Content | The 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 notes | Slides and lecture notes will be made available at Link | |||||
Literature | List of literature will be provided. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: to follow this course, you need some basic background in numerical methods (e.g., "Numerische Methoden in der Umweltphysik", 701-0461-00L) | |||||
651-4053-03L | Boundary Layer Meteorology and Air Pollution Modeling: Part II | W | 2 credits | 2G | M. Rotach, J. Schmidli | |
Abstract | The 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. | |||||
Objective | Overall 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 notes | available | |||||
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 / Notice | Requirements: Boundary Layer Meteorology and Pollutant transport, Part I | |||||
651-4802-00L | Numerical Models in Glaciology | W | 4 credits | 3G | M. Lüthi | |
Abstract | Introduction 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. | |||||
Objective | Training 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. | |||||
Content | Flow 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 notes | in preparation, will be distributed | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Pre-requisite: Physics of Glaciers I (651-4101-00) is strongly recommended matlab is recommended | |||||
401-5930-00L | Seminar in Physics of the Atmosphere for CSE | W | 4 credits | 2S | C. Schär | |
Abstract | In 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. | |||||
Objective | In 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 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
529-0474-00L | Quantum Chemistry | W | 6 credits | 3G | M. Reiher, H. P. Lüthi, M. T. Stiebritz | |
Abstract | Basic concepts and methods of quantum chemistry; Introduction to electronic structure theory. Exercises and some case studies using quantum chemical software. | |||||
Objective | Introduction to theory, methods, and algorithms for the description of many-electron systems (i.e., atoms and molecules). | |||||
Content | Basic 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 notes | hand outs | |||||
Literature | Lehrbücher: 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 / Notice | günstige Voraussetzungen: Einführende Vorlesung in Quantenmechanik (z.B. Physikalische Chemie III: Quantenmechanik), Informatikgestützte Chemie I | |||||
327-0613-00L | Computer Applications: Finite Elements in Solids and Structures Does not take place this semester. | W | 4 credits | 2V + 2U | A. Gusev | |
Abstract | To introduce the Finite Element Method to the students with a general interest in the topic | |||||
Objective | To introduce the Finite Element Method to the students with a general interest in the topic | |||||
Content | Introduction; 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 notes | Autographie | |||||
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 | |||||
401-5940-00L | Seminar in Chemistry and Biology for CSE | W | 4 credits | 2S | W. F. van Gunsteren | |
Abstract | The 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 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
151-0212-00L | Advanced CFD Methods | O | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | P. Jenny | |
Abstract | In 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. | |||||
Objective | Application oriented approach to the solution of fluid dynamics problems | |||||
Content | Content: - 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 notes | Parts 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. | |||||
151-0208-00L | Computational Methods for Flow, Heat and Mass Transfer Problems | W | 4 credits | 2V + 2U | L. Kleiser | |
Abstract | Numerical 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. | |||||
Objective | Knowledge of and practical experience with important discretisation and solution methods for Computational Fluid Dynamics, Heat and Mass Transfer Problems | |||||
Content | Aufbauend 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 notes | Lecture notes are available (in German) | |||||
Literature | a list of references is supplied | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | It is crucial to actively solve the analytical and practical (programming) exercises. | |||||
151-0114-00L | Turbulence Modeling | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | P. Jenny | |
Abstract | In 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. | |||||
Objective | The 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. | |||||
Content | 1. 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 notes | The 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. | |||||
Literature | S. B. Pope, Turbulent Flows, Cambridge University Press, 2000 | |||||
151-0218-00L | Hydrodynamic Stability and Transition | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | L. Kleiser, D. Obrist | |
Abstract | Introduction 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. | |||||
Objective | A 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. | |||||
Content | This 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 notes | Short lecture notes will be provided during the course. | |||||
Literature | A list of references will be given on the course webpage. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Testat is required for exam admission (see course webpage). | |||||
401-5950-00L | Seminar in Fluid Dynamics for CSE | W | 4 credits | 2S | P. Jenny, L. Kleiser | |
Abstract | Enlarged knowledge and practical abilities in fundamentals and applications of Computational Fluid Dynamics | |||||
Objective | ||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Please register online no later than 2 week before the semester begins | |||||
Control Theory | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
227-0216-00L | Control Systems II | W | 6 credits | 4G | R. Smith | |
Abstract | Introduction to basic and advanced concepts of modern feedback control. | |||||
Objective | Introduction to basic and advanced concepts of modern feedback control. | |||||
Content | This 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 notes | Copy of transparencies | |||||
Literature | Skogestad, Postlethwaite: Multivariable Feedback Control - Analysis and Design. Second Edition. John Wiley, 2005. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Control Systems or equivalent | |||||
Robotics | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
151-0854-00L | Autonomous Mobile Robots | O | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | R. Siegwart, M. Chli, M. Rufli, D. Scaramuzza | |
Abstract | The 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. | |||||
Objective | The 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 notes | Introduction to Autonomous Mobile Robots. Siegwart, R. and Nourbakhsh, I. (2004), A Bradford Book, The MIT Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts, London, England | |||||
151-0566-00L | Recursive Estimation | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | R. D'Andrea | |
Abstract | Estimation of the state of a dynamic system based on a model and observations in a computationally efficient way. | |||||
Objective | Learn the basic recursive estimation methods and their underlying principles. | |||||
Content | Probability 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 notes | Lecture notes available on course website. | |||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Requirements: Introductory probability theory and matrix-vector algebra. | |||||
401-5860-00L | Seminar in Robotics for CSE | W | 4 credits | 2S | F. Iida | |
Abstract | This 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. | |||||
Objective | The 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. | |||||
Content | This 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 | ||||||
Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
402-0812-00L | Computational Statistical Physics | W | 8 credits | 2V + 2U | H. J. Herrmann | |
Abstract | Computer 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. | |||||
Objective | The 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. | |||||
Content | Computer 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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