Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2024
Integrated Building Systems Master ![]() | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-1633-00L | Energy Conversion This course is intended for students outside of D-MAVT. | W | 4 credits | 3G | G. Sansavini, S. A. Hosseini, I. Karlin | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course provides the students with an introduction to thermodynamics and energy conversion. Students shall gain basic understanding of energy and energy interactions as well as their link to energy conversion technologies. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Thermodynamics is key to understanding and use of energy conversion processes in Nature and technology. Main objective of this course is to give a compact introduction into basics of Thermodynamics: Thermodynamic states and thermodynamic processes; Work and Heat; First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics. Students shall learn how to use energy balance equation in the analysis of power cycles and shall be able to evaluate efficiency of internal combustion engines, gas turbines and steam power plants. The course shall extensively use thermodynamic charts to building up students’ intuition about opportunities and restrictions to increase useful work output of energy conversion. Thermodynamic functions such as entropy, enthalpy and free enthalpy shall be used to understand chemical and phase equilibrium. The course also gives introduction to refrigeration cycles, combustion and refrigeration. The course compactly covers the standard course of thermodynamics for engineers, with additional topics of a general physics interest (nonideal gas equation of state and Joule-Thomson effect) also included. In the course "Energy Conversion", the competencies of process understanding and system understanding are applied and examined and the competencies process understanding and modeling are taught. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | 1. Thermodynamic systems, states and state variables 2. Properties of substances: Water, air and ideal gas 3. Energy conservation in closed and open systems: work, internal energy, heat and enthalpy 4. Second law of thermodynamics and entropy 5. Energy analysis of steam power cycles 6. Energy analysis of gas power cycles 7. Refrigeration and heat pump cycles 8. Nonideal gas equation of state and Joule-Thomson effect 9. Maximal work and exergy 10. Mixtures 11. Chemical reactions and combustion systems; chemical and phase equilibrium | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Lecture slides and supplementary documentation will be available online. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach, by Cengel, Y. A. and Boles, M. A., McGraw Hill | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is intended for students outside of D-MAVT. Students are assumed to have an adequate background in calculus, physics, and engineering mechanics. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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401-0203-00L | Mathematics ![]() | W | 4 credits | 3V + 1U | C. Busch | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course gives an introduction to the following subjects: calculus, multivariable calculus, differential equations, linear algebra (systems of linear equations, matrices, eigenvectors). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Basic mathematical knowledge for engineers. Mathematics as a tool to solve engineering problems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | This course gives an introduction to the following subjects: calculus, multivariable calculus, differential equations, linear algebra (systems of linear equations, matrices, eigenvectors). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Tom M. Apostol, Calculus, Volume 1, One-Variable Calculus with an Introduction to Linear Algebra, 2nd Edition, Wiley Tom M. Apostol, Multi-Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra with Applications, 2nd Edition, Wiley Ulrich L. Rohde, Introduction to differential calculus : Systematic studies with engineering applications for beginners, Wiley. Ulrich L. Rohde, Introduction to integral calculus : Systematic studies with engineering applications for beginners, Wiley. Serge Lang, Introduction to Linear Algebra, 2nd edition, Springer New York. Serge Lang, A First Course in Calculus, 5th edition, Springer New York. A list will be handed out in the lecture. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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066-0427-00L | Design and Building Process MIBS ![]() | W | 2 credits | 2V | A. Paulus, S. Menz | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Design and Building Process MIBS is a brief manual for prospective architects and engineers covering the competences and the responsibilities of all involved parties through the design and building process. Lectures on six compact aspects gaining importance in a increasingly specialised, complex and international surrounding. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Participants will come to understand how they can best navigate the design and building process, especially in relation to understanding their profession, gaining a thorough knowledge of rules and regulations, as well as understanding how involved parties' minds work. They will also have the opportunity to investigate ways in which they can relate to, understand, and best respond to their clients' wants and needs. Finally, course participants will come to appreciate the various tools and instruments, which are available to them when implementing their projects. The course will guide the participants, bringing the individual pieces of knowledge into a superordinate relationship. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Design and Building Process MIBS is a brief manual for prospective architects and engineers covering the competencies and the responsibilities of involved parties through the design and building process. Three compact chapters regarding the established building culture are gaining importance in an increasingly specialised, complex and international surrounding. Lectures on the topics of competence, organisation, agility, monitoring, interest, and the environment will guide the participants, bringing the individual pieces of knowledge into a superordinate relationship. The course introduces the key figures, depicts the criteria of the project and highlights the proveded services of the consultants. In addition to discussing the basics, the terminologies and the tendencies, the lecture units will refer to the studios as well as the practice: Teaching-based workshops will compliment and deepen the understanding of the three selected aspects of profession, methodology, and environment. The course is presented as a moderated seminar to allow students the opportunity for invididual input: active cololaboration between the students and their tutor therefore required. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | https://map.arch.ethz.ch | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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103-0317-00L | Spatial Planning and Development Only for master students, otherwise a special permisson by the lecturer is required. | W | 3 credits | 2G | D. Kaufmann, A. Kuitenbrouwer | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The course deals with theoretical, methodological and practical foundations around the understanding and production of urban space. It discusses theoretical planning frameworks, and tasks of spatial planning at various scales, addresses current and future challenges of spatial development and reviews approaches for a sustainable development in Switzerland and beyond. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The overall aim of the course is to raise students’ awareness and curiosity about the aspects that guide and shape our environment. Through lectures, readings, discussions, and exercises, the course seeks to achieve this goal by accumulating crucial notions from both theoretical and practice-based examples, and applying such knowledge into tasks of spatial planning. At the end of this course, students should feel empowered to critically engage with the teaching topic from a variety of approaches. By taking up the lecture, the students should be able to to analyse, interpret and reflect complex cross-scale tasks of spatial development and transformation, and to use their theoretical, methodical and professional knowledge to tackle them. You as students will... ... assess present and future core challenges of spatial planning and development. ... discuss the role of spatial planning and development in shaping our living environment. ... differentiate the levels, scales and tasks of spatial planning instruments and processes. … reflect on theoretical concepts and pratical examples of decision-making of spatial tasks. ... identify and apply spatially relevant principles and systems for action-oriented planning and decision-making. ... acquire theoretical, methodological, practical know-how to examine, clarify, and solve tasks on spatial development | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Spatial development as a discipline deals with the development, (trans)formation, and arrangement of our urban environment. We simultaneously perceive and contribute to its transformation, making space the result of manifold intended and unintended changes. To mediate between different demands, interests and interventions of multiple actors, a forward-looking, evidence-based, and action-oriented planning is necessary. As guidance for future action, (spatial) planning has to be committed to the sustainable handling as well as just allocation of resources, in particular of the non-replicable resource land. The course focuses on both theoretical concepts and practice-oriented approaches to gain knowledge and be equipped to address current issues in spatial planning and development. This is mirrored in the course’s structure made of both of lectures and exercises. The lecture series introduces necessary key concepts and covers the following main topics: - Drivers of spatial development, inward development, core tasks and current challenges for (spatial) planners. - Interplay of formal and informal planning instruments across scales and actors. - Differentiation urban typologies, their characteristics and challenges - Types of spatial analysis and key figures - Planning approaches and the (political) steering of spatial development. - Types of processes and participation in spatial development. - Approaches for planning complex urban situations - Concepts for sustainable development The exercises provide a framework for practical application of the learned theoretical concepts of spatial planning to real-life situations. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | A course will be set up on Moodle for the provision of lectures and documents, to upload group deliverables and to ask questions in a discussion Forum. All documents provided are exclusively available for use within this course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
101-0527-10L | Materials and Constructions | O | 4 credits | 2G | G. Habert, D. M. L. Ardant | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Building materials with a special focus on regenerative materials: earth, bio-based and reuse. Looking at material sourcing, properties and performance, as well as how they are integrated in the buildings (building envelope and detailing). Choice of material is done out of sustainability concern. Comfort, moisture transfer and building physics with hygroscopic materials. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Special focus on regenerative materials: earth, bio-based and reuse The students will acquire knowledge in the following fields: Fundamentals of material performance Introduction to durability problems of building facades Materials for the building envelope: - Overview of structural materials and systems: concrete, steel, stone, earth, wood and bamboo - Insulating materials (bio-based vs conventional) Assessment of materials and components behaviour and performance Degradation risks connected to insulation and post-insulation Aspects of sustainability and durability Special focus on comfort, moisture transfer and building physics with hygroscopic materials will be done. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Introduction Sustainable cement and concrete Earth construction Stone Steel Bamboo Timber construction Building physic and conventional insulation Bio-based insulation and degradation risks with insulation Hygrothermal properties of building materials and dynamic numerical simulations Efficiency and sustainability of modern window glazing Course will have general lectures + hands on lab @home experiments + group project for implementation of regenerative materials. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-8011-00L | Building Physics: Theory and Applications ![]() ![]() Enrolment after agreement with the lecturer only. | O | 4 credits | 3V + 1U | A. Kubilay, X. Zhou, L. Fei, A. Rubin | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Principles of heat and mass transport, hygro-thermal performance, durability of the building envelope and interaction with indoor and outdoor climates, applications. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The students will acquire in the following fields: - Principles of heat and mass transport and its mathematical description. - Indoor and outdoor climate and driving forces. - Hygrothermal properties of building materials. - Building envelope solutions and their construction. - Hygrothermal performance and durability. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Principles of heat and mass transport, hygro-thermal performance, durability of the building envelope and interaction with indoor and outdoor climates, applications. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Handouts, supporting material and exercises are provided online via Moodle. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Priority will be given to students in Integrated Building Systems Master (MIBS). Please send an email to the main lecturer, if you are not a MIBS student. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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363-0389-00L | Technology and Innovation Management | O | 3 credits | 2G | S. Brusoni, A. Zeijen | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course focuses on the sources of innovation (with a specific focus on digital technologies), the tools and techniques that organizations deploy to innovate routinely, and the strategic implications of technical change at different levels of analysis: individuals, firms and whole ecosystems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | This course intends to enable all students to: - Acquire and understand the basic jargon, concepts and methods necessary to discuss, in a precise and concise manner, innovation processes and their outcomes at different levels of analysis - Analyze the differences between individual and organizational decision processes and their innovative outcomes - Evaluate critically the potential of different (digital) technologies to impact business organizations. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Organizations and people are faced with a fundamental decision: they have to allocate resources between well-known tasks that reliably generate positive results; or explore new ways of doing things, new technologies, products and services. The latter is a high risk choice. Its rewards can be high, but the chances of success are small. How do firms organize to take these decisions? What kind of management skills are necessary to take them? What kind of tools and methods are deployed to sustain managerial decision-making in highly volatile environments? These are the central questions on which this course focuses, relying on a combination of lectures, case-based discussion, and guest speakers. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Slides will be available on the Moodle page | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Readings will be available on the Moodle page | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The course content and methods are designed for students with some background in management and/or economics | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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363-0503-00L | Principles of Microeconomics ![]() | O | 3 credits | 2G | M. Filippini | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The course introduces basic principles, problems and approaches of microeconomics. This provides the students with reflective and contextual knowledge on how societies use scarce resources to produce goods and services and ensure a (fair) distribution. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The learning objectives of the course are: (1) Students must be able to discuss basic principles, problems and approaches in microeconomics. (2) Students can analyse and explain simple economic principles in a market using supply and demand graphs. (3) Students can contrast different market structures and describe firm and consumer behaviour. (4) Students can identify market failures such as externalities related to market activities and illustrate how these affect the economy as a whole. (5) Students can also recognize behavioural failures within a market and discuss basic concepts related to behavioural economics. (6) Students can apply simple mathematical concepts on economic problems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The resources on our planet are finite. The discipline of microeconomics therefore deals with the question of how society can use scarce resources to produce goods and services and ensure a (fair) distribution. In particular, microeconomics deals with the behaviour of consumers and firms in different market forms. Economic considerations and discussions are not part of classical engineering and science study programme. Thus, the goal of the lecture "Principles of Microeconomics" is to teach students how economic thinking and argumentation works. The course should help the students to look at the contents of their own studies from a different perspective and to be able to critically reflect on economic problems discussed in the society. Topics covered by the course are: - Supply and demand - Consumer demand: neoclassical and behavioural perspective - Cost of production: neoclassical and behavioural perspective - Welfare economics, deadweight losses - Governmental policies - Market failures, common resources and public goods - Public sector, tax system - Market forms (competitive, monopolistic, monopolistic competitive, oligopolistic) - International trade | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Lecture notes, exercises and reference material can be downloaded from Moodle. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | N. Gregory Mankiw and Mark P. Taylor (2023), "Economics", 6th edition, South-Western Cengage Learning. For students taking only the course 'Principles of Microeconomics' there is a shorter version of the same book: N. Gregory Mankiw and Mark P. Taylor (2023), "Microeconomics", 6th edition, South-Western Cengage Learning. Complementary: R. Pindyck and D. Rubinfeld (2018), "Microeconomics", 9th edition, Pearson Education. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-8007-00L | Urban Physics ![]() ![]() Does not take place this semester. | W | 3 credits | 3G | D. W. Brunner, H. Wernli | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Urban physics: wind, wind comfort, pollutant dispersion, natural ventilation, driving rain, heat islands, climate change and weather conditions, urban acoustics and energy use in the urban context. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | - Basic knowledge of the global climate and the local microclimate around buildings - Impact of urban environment on wind, ventilation, rain, pollutants, acoustics and energy, and their relation to comfort, durability, air quality and energy demand - Application of urban physics concepts in urban design | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | - Climate Change. The Global Picture: global energy balance, global climate models, the IPCC process. Towards regional climate scenarios: role of spatial resolution, overview of approaches, hydrostatic RCMs, cloud-resolving RCMs - Urban micro climate and comfort: urban heat island effect, wind flow and radiation in the built environment, convective heat transport modelling, heat balance and ventilation of urban spaces - impact of morphology, outdoor wind comfort, outdoor thermal comfort, - Urban energy and urban design. Energy performance of building quarters and cities, decentralized urban energy production and storage technologies, district heating networks, optimization of energy consumption at district level, effect of the micro climate, urban heat islands, and climate change on the energy performance of buildings and building blocks. - Wind driving rain (WDR): WDR phenomena, WDR experimental and modeling, wind blocking effect, applications and moisture durability - Pollutant dispersion. pollutant cycle : emission, transport and deposition, air quality - Urban acoustics. noise propagation through the urban environment, meteorological effects, urban acoustic modeling, noise reduction measures, urban vegetation - Practical exercise on climatic data collection and analyze | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The course lectures and material are provided online via Moodle. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | For MIBS Master students 151-8011-ooL Building Phyics Theory & Application is a pre-requisit for this course or instructor permission. For others no prior knowledge is required. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
066-0421-00L | Building Systems I ![]() | O | 3 credits | 3G | I. Hischier, L. Baldini, L. O. Grobe, F. M. Meggers, A. Schlüter | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Building Systems I gives an overview of fundamentals and concepts relevant for the design of building systems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The course has the following learning objectives: - Knowledge of the fundamentals, principles and technologies for building heating, cooling, ventilation and electricity supply. - Knowledge of the integration and interdependencies of building systems and building structure, construction and aesthetics - Ability to estimate relevant quantities and qualities for heating/cooling/ventilation/electricity of buildings and the related supply systems - Ability to evaluate and choose an approach for sustainable heating/cooling/ventilation/electricity, the system and its components - Synthesis in own integrated design projects | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | 1. Comfort & Environment 2. Heating / cooling concepts and demand 3. Natural / mechanical ventilation concepts and demand 4. Solar generation / electricity storage and demand 5. Information & Communication Technologies | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
101-0608-00L | Design-Integrated Life Cycle Assessment | W | 4 credits | 2G | G. Habert, F. Belizario Silva, A. Rodionova | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Currently, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is applied as an ex-post design evaluation of buildings, but rarely used to improve the building during the design process. The aim of this course is to apply LCA during the design of buildings by means of a digital, parametric tool. The necessary fundamentals of the LCA method will be taught following a lecture on demands approach. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The course will follow two main objectives and a third optional objective, depending on the design projects the students’ choose. At the end of the course, the students will: 1. Know the methodology of LCA 2. Be able to apply LCA in the design process to assess and improve the environmental performance of their projects 3. Be able to use the parametric LCA tool and link it to additional performance assessment tools for a holistic optimisation | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The course will be structured into two parts, each making up about half of the semester. Part I: Exercises with lectures on demand The first six individual courses will follow the “lectures on demand” approach. Small “hands-on” exercises focusing on one specific aspect will be given out and the necessary background knowledge will be provided in the form of short input lectures when questions arise. The following topics will be discussed during the first part: 1) LCA basic introduction 2) System boundaries, functional unit, end of life 3) Carbon budget and LCA benchmarks 4) BIM-LCA, available calculation tools and databases 5) Integrated analysis of environmental and cost assessment 6) Bio-based carbon storage Part II: Project-based learning In the second part, the students will work on their individual project in groups of three. For the design task, the students will bring their own project and work on improving it. The projects can be chosen depending on the students background and range from buildings to infrastructure projects. Intermediate presentations will ensure the continuous work and make sure all groups are on the same level and learn from each other. During this part, the following hands-on tutorials will be given: 1) Introduction to Rhinoceros 6 and 7 2) Introduction to grasshopper 3) Integrated assessment tools (ladybug tools) 4) Introduction to in-house grasshopper plugin for LCA analysis | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | As the course follows a lecture on demand approach, the lecture slides will be provided after each course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | A list of the basic literature will be offered on a specific online platform, that could be used by all students attending the lectures. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The students are expected to work out of class as well. The course time will be used by the teachers to answer project-specific questions. The lecture series will be conducted in English and is aimed at students of master's programs, particularly in civil engineering and MIBS. No lecture will be given during Seminar week. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-0209-00L | Renewable Energy Technologies ![]() | W | 4 credits | 3G | A. Bardow, E. Casati | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The course covers the key concepts and aspects involved in: (i) the economics of renewable energy and its integration in the energy system, (ii) the engineering of prominent renewable energy technologies (solar, wind, hydro, geothermal and bioenergy), and (iii) energy storage, renewable transport and renewable heating & cooling. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Students learn the potential and limitations of renewable energy technologies and their contribution towards sustainable energy utilization. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Lecture Notes containing copies of the presented slides. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisite: strong background on the fundamentals of engineering thermodynamics, equivalent to the material taught in the courses Thermodynamics I, II, and III of D-MAVT. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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101-0123-00L | Structural Design | W | 3 credits | 2G | J. Pauli, F. Bertagna | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The goal of the course is to introduce students to Structural Design. The course fosters the development of a design thinking that emerges from the coexistence of a number of design parameters and performance criteria related to force flow, construction technologies, material use, and spatial qualities. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | After a successful completion of the course, students will be able to: 1. Critically evaluate structural design concepts based on their impact and implications beyond the sole structural performance 2. Identify the most relevant design parameters and performance criteria for a given design task and select adequate tools to effectively integrate them as part of the design process 3. Develop structural systems in compliance with structural, spatial, and environmental design aspects simultaneously | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The goal of the course is to introduce students to Structural Design. The course fosters the development of a design thinking that emerges from the coexistence of a number of design parameters and performance criteria related to force flow, construction technologies, material use, and spatial qualities. Students will learn about diverse tools that allow for controlling such a complex blend of parameters and criteria at the interface between different disciplines such as structural engineering and architecture. These tools will include physical models, graphical methods, and digital tools. After a series of lectures and workshops, students will work on a design exercise that represents the core of the entire course. The design exercise is an opportunity to deal with an open-ended task that does not admit a univocal answer. In fact, besides structural performance, design options will be discussed and evaluated through a set of criteria including spatial qualities, constructability, and environmental footprint. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-0909-00L | Chemistry | W | 4 credits | 2V + 2U | D. J. Norris | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This is a general chemistry course aimed at first-year bachelor students in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The aims of the course are: 1) To provide a thorough understanding of the basic principles of chemistry and its application, 2) To develop an understanding of the atomic and molecular nature of matter and of the chemical reactions that describe its transformations, and 3) To emphasize areas considered most relevant in an engineering context. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Electronic structure of atoms, chemical bonding, molecular geometry and bonding theories, intermolecular forces, gases, thermodynamics, chemical thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, equilibria, liquids and solutions, acids and bases, redox- and electrochemistry. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The instructor's lecture notes will be available prior to every lecture and can be downloaded from Moodle. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | The course is based on "Chemistry: The Central Science" by Brown, LeMay, Bursten, Murphy, Woodward, and Stoltzfus. Pearson, 15th Edition in SI units (global edition). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
151-0245-00L | Energy Systems Analysis: an Introduction and Overview with Applications | W | 4 credits | 2V + 2U | R. McKenna, P. Burgherr, E. Panos, R. Sacchi | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Introductory (advanced Bachelor or beginner Master level) course on Energy Systems Analysis, providing an overview of the field and methods. After an introduction to systems thinking and characterisation of technologies, three main blocks cover with Lifecycle Assessment (LCA, 3 units), bottom-up linear optimisation models (5 units) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA, 3 units). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | - Analyse energy technologies with respect to different criteria/characteristics - Discuss and debate the pros and cons of different ESA models/approaches (for specific applications) - Explain the system-level interdependencies/interconnections within the energy system - Evaluate the effect of uncertainties and “the human dimension” on ESA and scenarios | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The course provides an introduction and overview to the most well-established models and methods of energy systems analysis, in each case introducing students to the theory and assumptions of the method, strengths and weaknesses of the specific approach, and case studies for exemplary energy technologies and systems. The students are taught to understand and will be able to apply the basic principles of these methods in the context of targeted assignments relating to real-world energy systems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | No but slides are provided before the lectures and videos recorded. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Will be provided during the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | No specific prerequisities, some background in energy-related topics in the Bachelor would be beneficial. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
401-0647-00L | Introduction to Mathematical Optimization | W | 5 credits | 2V + 1U | D. Adjiashvili | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Introduction to basic techniques and problems in mathematical optimization, and their applications to a variety of problems in engineering. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The goal of the course is to obtain a good understanding of some of the most fundamental mathematical optimization techniques used to solve linear programs and basic combinatorial optimization problems. The students will also practice applying the learned models to problems in engineering. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Topics covered in this course include: - Linear programming (simplex method, duality theory, shadow prices, ...). - Basic combinatorial optimization problems (spanning trees, shortest paths, network flows, ...). - Modelling with mathematical optimization: applications of mathematical programming in engineering. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Information about relevant literature will be given in the lecture. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is meant for students who did not already attend the course "Linear & Combinatorial Optimization", which is a more advance lecture covering similar topics. Compared to "Linear & Combinatorial Optimization", this course has a stronger focus on modeling and applications. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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227-0477-00L | Acoustics I ![]() | W | 3 credits | 2G | R. Pieren | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Introduction to the fundamentals of acoustics in the field of sound field calculations, measurement of acoustical events, outdoor sound propagation and room acoustics of large and small enclosures. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Understanding of the basic acoustical concepts and methods. Ability to understand the technical and scientific literature. Confidence in the use of measuring instruments. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Fundamentals of acoustics, calculation of sound fields, measurement and analysis of acoustical events, anatomy and properties of the ear, outdoor sound propagation, absorption and transmission of sound, room acoustics of large and small enclosures, noise and noise control. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | yes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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101-0577-00L | An Introduction to Sustainable Development in the Built Environment | W | 3 credits | 2G | G. Habert, A. Komkova | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | In 2015, the UN Conference in Paris shaped future world objectives to tackle climate change. This decarbonization strategy is additional to Sustainable Development goals formulated the same year by the UN general assembly. What does that mean for the built environment? This course provides an introduction to the notion of sustainable development when applied to our built environment. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | At the end of the semester, the students have an understanding of the term of sustainable development, its history, the current political and scientific discourses and its relevance for our built environment. In order to address current challenges of climate change mitigation and resource depletion, students will learn a holistic approach of sustainable development. Ecological, economical and social constraints will be presented and students will learn about methods for argumentation and tools for assessment (i.e. life cycle assessment). For this purpose an overview of sustainable development is presented with an introduction to the history of sustainability and its today definition as well as the role of cities, urbanisation and material resources (i.e. energy, construction material) in social economic and environmetal aspects. The course aims to promote an integral view and understanding of sustainability and describing different spheres (social/cultural, ecological, economical, and institutional) that influence our built environment. Students will acquire critical knowledge and understand the role of involved stakeholders, their motivations and constraints, learn how to evaluate challenges, identify deficits and define strategies to promote a more sustainable construction. Notion of environmental justice and regenerative practices will be addressed. After the course students should be able to define the relevance of specific local, regional or territorial aspects to achieve coherent and applicable solutions toward sustainable development. The course offers an environmental, socio-economic and socio-technical perspective focussing on buildings, cities and their transition to resilience with sustainable development. Students will learn on theory and application of current scientific pathways towards sustainable development. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The following topics give an overview of the themes that are to be worked on during the lecture. - Overview on the history and emergence of sustainable development - Overview on the current understanding and definition of sustainable development and beyond Methods - Method 1: Life cycle assessment (planning, construction, operation/use, deconstruction) - Method 2: Life Cycle Costing - Method 3: Labels and certification - Method 4: Material Flow Analysis Main issues: - Operation energy at building, urban and national scale - Mobility and density questions - Embodied energy for developing and developed world Values: limits efficiency environmental justice regeneration - Synthesis: Transition to sustainable development | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | All relevant information will be online available before the lectures. For each lecture slides of the lecture will be provided. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | A list of the basic literature will be offered on a specific online platform, that could be used by all students attending the lectures. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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101-0417-00L | Transport Planning Methods | W | 6 credits | 4G | E. Heinen | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The course provides the necessary knowledge to develop models to understand, to support and to evaluate the solution of given planning problems. The course is composed of a lecture part, providing the theoretical knowledge, and an applied part in which students develop their own models in order to evaluate a transport project/policy. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | - Appraise the role of theory and data in transport planning - Differentiate and appraise different transport planning methods (causality, 4 stage and agent based modeling, cost-benefit analysis) - Construct a transport model by statistical methods and algorithms commonly used in transport planning - Propose a modeling framework to analyze transport planning challenges. a decision-making supporting tool | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The course provides the necessary knowledge to develop models to understand travel behaviour and travel demand, and to support the solution of given planning problems. It also introduces cost-benefit analysis as a decision-making tool. Examples of such planning problems are the estimation of traffic volumes, prediction of estimated utilization of new public transport lines, and evaluation of effects (e.g. change in emissions of a city) triggered by building new infrastructure and changes to operational regulations. To cope with that, the problem is divided into sub-problems, which are solved using various statistical models and algorithms. The course is composed of a lecture part, providing the theoretical knowledge, and an applied part in which students develop their own models in order to analyse travel behaviour, develop a traditional transport model and to evaluate a transport project/ policy by means of cost-benefit analysis. Regular lab session take place to guide and support students with the applied part of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Moodle platform (enrollment needed) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Willumsen, P. and J. de D. Ortuzar (2024) Modelling Transport, Wiley, Chichester. Van Wee, B., Annema, J.A., Banister, D. and Pudāne, B. (2023) The Transport System and Transport Policy, An Introduction. Second Edition. Cheltenham, UK • Northampton, MA, USA Pearl, J., Glymour, M., and Jewell N.P. (2016) Causal Inference in Statistics. Wiley and Sons. Cascetta, E. (2001) Transportation Systems Engineering: Theory and Methods, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht. Sheffi, Y. (1985) Urban Transportation Networks: Equilibrium Analysis with Mathematical Programming Methods, Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs. Other: Schnabel, W. and D. Lohse (1997) Verkehrsplanung, 2. edn., vol. 2 of Grundlagen der Strassenverkehrstechnik und der Verkehrsplanung, Verlag für Bauwesen, Berlin. McCarthy, P.S. (2001) Transportation Economics: A case study approach, Blackwell, Oxford. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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363-0387-00L | Corporate Sustainability | W | 3 credits | 2G | V. Hoffmann, C. Bening-Bach, B. Girod, L. Miehé | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The lecture explores current challenges of corporate sustainability and prepares students to become champions for sustainable business practices. The module combines asynchronous videos, live sessions, with a group work phase between weeks 5-10 of semester during which students deep-dive into one of 10 sustainability challenges. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Students - assess the limits and the potential of corporate sustainability for sustainable development - develop competencies that are useful in the context of corporate sustainability and beyond (analytical competency, critical thinking, problem solving) - recognize and realize opportunities through team work for corporate sustainability in a business environment - present strategic recommendations in teams | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Corporate Sustainability is the flagship course of the Group for Sustainability and Technology at D-MTEC. In this course, students learn about key concepts in corporate sustainability and develop skills to implement them in the real world. The course prepares students for making well-informed sustainability decisions in their future careers. The course uses constructive alignment to bring the various innovative teaching and learning elements (e.g., case-based experiential learning, reflective thinking and blended learning with videos and quizzes) into a coherent transformational journey. Students can now flexibly, efficiently, and effectively acquire the conceptual foundations that are essential for a substantial understanding of corporate sustainability. For part of the course, students work in groups to complete a set of graded assignments designed to guide them into a deep dive on a selected corporate sustainability challenge. Please note that full participation in this part is essential, so make sure you are available. Furthermore, these group assignments count towards the overall grade for the course. For further details on the course structure etc. visit the following link: http://www.sustec.ethz.ch/teaching/lectures/corporate-sustainability.html | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Presentation slides will be made available on Moodle after lectures. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Literature recommendations will be distributed via Moodle, and are available from the start of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | TEACHING FORMAT/ ATTENDANCE: The course includes several mandatory sessions that participants must attend to successfully earn credit points. It is not possible to take the class purely online | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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402-0809-00L | Introduction to Computational Physics | W | 8 credits | 2V + 2U | A. Adelmann | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course offers an introduction to computer simulation methods for physics problems and their implementation on PCs and super computers. The covered topics include classical equations of motion, partial differential equations (wave equation, diffusion equation, Maxwell's equations), Monte Carlo simulations, percolation, phase transitions, and N-Body problems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Students learn to apply the following methods: Random number generators, Determination of percolation critical exponents, numerical solution of problems from classical mechanics and electrodynamics, canonical Monte-Carlo simulations to numerically analyze magnetic systems. Students also learn how to implement their own numerical frameworks in Julia and how to use existing libraries to solve physical problems. In addition, students learn to distinguish between different numerical methods to apply them to solve a given physical problem. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Introduction to computer simulation methods for physics problems. Models from classical mechanics, electrodynamics and statistical mechanics as well as some interdisciplinary applications are used to introduce modern programming methods for numerical simulations using Julia. Furthermore, an overview of existing software libraries for numerical simulations is presented. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Lecture notes and slides are available online and will be distributed if desired. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Literature recommendations and references are included in the lecture notes. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Lecture and exercise lessons in english, exams in German or in English | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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101-0187-00L | Structural Reliability and Risk Analysis | W | 3 credits | 2G | S. Marelli | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Structural reliability aims at quantifying the probability of failure of systems due to uncertainties in their design, manufacturing and environmental conditions. Risk analysis combines this information with the consequences of failure in view of optimal decision making. The course presents the underlying probabilistic modelling and computational methods for reliability and risk assessment. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The goal of this course is to provide the students with a thorough understanding of the key concepts behind structural reliability and risk analysis. After this course the students will have refreshed their knowledge of probability theory and statistics to model uncertainties in view of engineering applications. They will be able to analyze the reliability of a structure and to use risk assessment methods for decision making under uncertain conditions. They will be aware of the state-of-the-art computational methods and software in this field. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Engineers are confronted every day to decision making under limited amount of information and uncertain conditions. When designing new structures and systems, the design codes such as SIA or Euro- codes usually provide a framework that guarantees safety and reliability. However the level of safety is not quantified explicitly, which does not allow the analyst to properly choose between design variants and evaluate a total cost in case of failure. In contrast, the framework of risk analysis allows one to incorporate the uncertainty in decision making. The first part of the course is a reminder on probability theory that is used as a main tool for reliability and risk analysis. Classical concepts such as random variables and vectors, dependence and correlation are recalled. Basic statistical inference methods used for building a probabilistic model from the available data, e.g. the maximum likelihood method, are presented. The second part is related to structural reliability analysis, i.e. methods that allow one to compute probabilities of failure of a given system with respect to prescribed criteria. The framework of reliability analysis is first set up. Reliability indices are introduced together with the first order-second moment method (FOSM) and the first order reliability method (FORM). Methods based on Monte Carlo simulation are then reviewed and illustrated through various examples. By-products of reliability analysis such as sensitivity measures and partial safety coefficients are derived and their links to structural design codes is shown. The reliability of structural systems is also introduced as well as the methods used to reassess existing structures based on new information. The third part of the course addresses risk assessment methods. Techniques for the identification of hazard scenarios and their representation by fault trees and event trees are described. Risk is defined with respect to the concept of expected utility in the framework of decision making. Elements of Bayesian decision making, i.e. pre-, post and pre-post risk assessment methods are presented. The course also includes a tutorial using the UQLab software dedicated to real world structural reliability analysis. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Slides of the lectures are available online every week. A printed version of the full set of slides is proposed to the students at the beginning of the semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Ang, A. and Tang, W.H, Probability Concepts in Engineering - Emphasis on Applications to Civil and Environmental Engineering, 2nd Edition, John Wiley & Sons, 2007. S. Marelli, R. Schöbi, B. Sudret, UQLab user manual - Structural reliability (rare events estimation), Report UQLab-V0.92-107. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Basic course on probability theory and statistics | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
701-1346-00L | Climate Change Mitigation: Carbon Dioxide Removal ![]() | W | 3 credits | 2G | N. Gruber, C. Brunner | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Future climate change can only kept within reasonable bounds when CO2 emissions are drastically reduced. In this course, we will discuss a portfolio of options involving the alteration of natural carbon sinks and carbon sequestration. The course includes introductory lectures, presentations from guest speakers from industry and the public sector, and final presentations by the students. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The goal of this course is to investigate, as a group, a particular set of carbon mitigation/sequestration options and to evaluate their potential, their cost, and their consequences. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | From the large number of carbon sequestration/mitigation options, a few options will be selected and then investigated in detail by the students. The results of this research will then be presented to the other students, the involved faculty, and discussed in detail by the whole group. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Will be identified based on the chosen topic. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Exam: No final exam. Pass/No-Pass is assigned based on the quality of the presentation and ensuing discussion. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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363-0537-00L | Resource and Environmental Economics | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. Miftakhova, A. Minabutdinov | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Relationship between economy and environment, market failures, external effects and public goods, contingent valuation, internalisation of externalities, economics of non-renewable resources, economics of renewable resources, environmental cost-benefit analysis, sustainability economics, and international resource and environmental problems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | A successful completion of the course will enable a thorough understanding of the basic questions and methods of resource and environmental economics and the ability to solve typical problems using appropriate tools consisting of concise verbal explanations, diagrams or mathematical expressions. Concrete goals are first of all the acquisition of knowledge about the main questions of resource and environmental economics and about the foundation of the theory with different normative concepts in terms of efficiency and fairness. Secondly, students should be able to deal with environmental externalities and internalisation through appropriate policies or private negotiations, including knowledge of the available policy instruments and their relative strengths and weaknesses. Thirdly, the course will allow for in-depth economic analysis of renewable and non-renewable resources, including the role of stock constraints, regeneration functions, market power, property rights and the impact of technology. A fourth objective is to successfully use the well-known tool of cost-benefit analysis for environmental policy problems, which requires knowledge of the benefits of an improved natural environment. The last two objectives of the course are the acquisition of sufficient knowledge about the economics of sustainability and the application of environmental economic theory and policy at international level, e.g. to the problem of climate change. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The course covers all the interactions between the economy and the natural environment. It introduces and explains basic welfare concepts and market failure; external effects, public goods, and environmental policy; the measurement of externalities and contingent valuation; the economics of non-renewable resources, renewable resources, cost-benefit-analysis, sustainability concepts; international aspects of resource and environmental problems; selected examples and case studies. After a general introduction to resource and environmental economics, highlighting its importace and the main issues, the course explains the normative basis, utilitarianism, and fairness according to different principles. Pollution externalities are a deep core topic of the lecture. We explain the governmental internalisation of externalities as well as the private internalisation of externalities (Coase theorem). Furthermore, the issues of free rider problems and public goods, efficient levels of pollution, tax vs. permits, and command and control instruments add to a thorough analysis of environmental policy. Turning to resource supply, the lecture first looks at empirical data on non-renewable natural resources and then develops the optimal price development (Hotelling-rule). It deals with the effects of explorations, new technologies, and market power. When treating the renewable resources, we look at biological growth functions, optimal harvesting of renewable resources, and the overuse of open-access resources. A next topic is cost-benefit analysis with the environment, requiring measuring environmental benefits and measuring costs. In the chapter on sustainability, the course covers concepts of sustainability, conflicts with optimality, and indicators of sustainability. In a final chapter, we consider international environmental problems and in particular climate change and climate policy. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Perman, R., Ma, Y., McGilvray, J, Common, M.: "Natural Resource & Environmental Economics", 4th edition, 2011, Harlow, UK: Pearson Education | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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363-0565-00L | Principles of Macroeconomics | W | 3 credits | 2V | J.‑E. Sturm, E. Baselgia | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course examines the behaviour of macroeconomic variables, such as gross domestic product, unemployment and inflation rates. It tries to answer questions like: How can we explain fluctuations of national economic activity? What can economic policy do against unemployment and inflation? | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | This lecture will introduce the fundamentals of macroeconomic theory and explain their relevance to every-day economic problems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | This course helps you understand the world in which you live. There are many questions about the macroeconomy that might spark your curiosity. Why are living standards so meagre in many African countries? Why do some countries have high rates of inflation while others have stable prices? Why have some European countries adopted a common currency? These are just a few of the questions that this course will help you answer. Furthermore, this course will give you a better understanding of the potential and limits of economic policy. As a voter, you help choose the policies that guide the allocation of society's resources. When deciding which policies to support, you may find yourself asking various questions about economics. What are the burdens associated with alternative forms of taxation? What are the effects of free trade with other countries? How does the government budget deficit affect the economy? These and similar questions are always on the minds of policy makers. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The course Moodle page contains announcements, course information and lecture slides. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | The set-up of the course will closely follow the book of N. Gregory Mankiw and Mark P. Taylor (2023), Economics, Cengage Learning, 6th Edition. This book can also be used for the course '363-0503-00L Principles of Microeconomics' (Filippini). Besides this textbook, the slides, lecture notes and problem sets will cover the content of the lecture and the exam questions. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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252-0839-00L | Informatics ![]() | W | 2 credits | 2G | M. Dahinden, L. E. Fässler | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Students learn to apply selected concepts and tools from computer science for working on interdisciplinary projects. The following topics are covered: modeling and simulations, managing data with lists, tables and relational databases, introduction to programming. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The students learn to... - choose and apply appropriate tools from computer science, - process and analyze real-world data from their subject of study, - handle the complexity of real-world data, - query databases and understand and evaluate the corresponding database model, - encode a problem into a program, test the program, and correct errors, - implement models from the natural sciences as a simulation. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | 1. Modeling and simulations 2. Data management with lists and tables 3. Data management with a relational database 4. Introduction to programming with Python 1 (variables & data types) 5. Introduction to programming with Python 2 (control structures & logic) 6. Introduction to programming with Python 3 (sequential data structures) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | All materials for the lecture are available at www.evim.ethz.ch | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | L. Fässler, M. Dahinden, D. Komm, and D. Sichau: Einführung in die Programmierung mit Python. Begleitunterlagen zum Onlinekurs und zur Vorlesung, 2022. ISBN: 978-3-7562-1004-6. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is based on application-oriented learning. The students spend most of their time working through projects with data from natural science and discussing their results with teaching assistants. To learn the computer science basics there are electronic tutorials available. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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101-0007-00L | Project Management for Construction Projects ![]() | W | 4 credits | 3S | B. Hofer | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course is designed to lay down the foundation of the different concepts, techniques, and tools for successful project management of construction projects. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The goal is that at the end of this course students should have a good understanding of the different project management knowledge areas, the phases required for successful project management, and the role of a project manager. To demonstrate this, students will work in groups in different case studies to apply the concepts, tools and techniques presented in the class. Two 3 to 4 hours sessions towards the end of the lecture series will introduce a practical project to allow the teams to demonstrate the tools and techniques learned during the semester. The course will have a final quiz that will be graded. The course will be supported by several external lecturers from the construction industry and demonstrations of real-life case studies. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The main content of the course is summarized in the following topics: - Introduction, project and organization structures - Project scheduling - Resource management - Risk management - Project estimating and budgeting - Project financing and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) - Construction Process management and controlling - Sustainability management - Reporting and Communication - Interpersonal skills and leadership in Construction projects - Advanced Topics in Construction Project management (BIM / 5D planning, KI) - Project Evaluation and Closure | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The slides for the class will be available for download from Moodle at least one day before each class. Copies of all necessary documents will be distributed at appropriate times. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Relevant readings will be recommended throughout the course (and made available to the students via Moodle). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The students will be randomly assigned to teams. Students will be graded as a team based on the final Project proposal with the in-class oral presentation as well as a final exam (50% exam and 50% project). Homework will not be graded but your final report and presentation will consist mostly of your homework assignments consolidated and put in a report and presentation format. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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376-1177-00L | Human Factors I | W | 3 credits | 2V | M. Menozzi Jäckli | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Strategies of human-system-interaction, individual needs, physical & mental abilities, and system properties are key factors affecting the quality and performance in interaction processes. In the lecture, factors are investigated by basic scientific approaches. Discussed topics are important for optimizing people's health, well-being, and satisfaction as well as the overall system performance. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The goal of the lecture is to empower students in better understanding the applied theories, principles, and methods in various applications. Students are expected to learn about how to enable an efficient and qualitatively high standing interaction between human and the environment, considering costs, benefits, health, and safety as well. Thus, an ergonomic design and evaluation process of products, tasks, and environments may be promoted in different disciplines. The goal is achieved in addressing a broad variety of topics and embedding the discussion in macroscopic factors such as the behavior of consumers and objectives of economy. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | - Physiological, physical, and cognitive factors in sensation, perception, and action - Body spaces and functional anthropometry, Digital Human Models - Experimental techniques in assessing human performance, well-being, and comfort - Usability engineering in system designs, product development, and innovation - Human information processing and biological cybernetics - Interaction among consumers, environments, behavior, and tasks | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | - Gavriel Salvendy, Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics, 4th edition (2012), is available on NEBIS as electronic version and for free to ETH students - Further textbooks are introduced in the lecture - Brouchures, checklists, key articles etc. are uploaded in ILIAS | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
103-0569-00L | European Aspects of Spatial Development | W | 3 credits | 2G | A. Peric Momcilovic | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Following the insight into historical perspective and contemporary models of governance and planning, the course focuses on the international dimension of spatial planning in Europe. This includes a discussion of how European spatial policy is made and by whom, how planners can participate in such process and how they can address transnational challenges of spatial development cooperatively. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Keeping the general aim of exploring the European dimension of spatial planning in mind, the specific course learning objectives are as follows: - to interpret the history of spatial planning at the transnational scale - to understand and explain the content of the European spatial policy agenda - to describe and analyse the role of territorial cooperation in making European spatial development patterns and planning procedures - to discuss the changing role of planners and evaluate the ways of their engagement in European spatial policy-making | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | - European spatial policy agenda: introduction and basic directives - governance models - planning models; collaborative planning model (main concepts & critics) - post-positivist approach to spatial planning - transnational spatial planning in Europe; questioning the European spatial planning; spatial development trends in Europe - EU as a political system: EU institutions & non-EU actors - planning families in Europe; the European spatial planning agenda - spatial planning strategies and programmes on territorial cooperation - the notion of planning culture and planning system; planning cultures in Europe - basic characteristics of planning systems in Europe - the relevance of European transnational cooperation for spatial planning - European transnational initiatives | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The documents for the lecture will be provided at the moodle. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Obligatory literature: - Dühr, S., Colomb, C. & Nadin, V. (2010). European Spatial Planning and Territorial Cooperation. London: Routledge. Recommended literature: Governance models: - Martens, K. (2007). Actors in a Fuzzy Governance Environment. In G. de Roo & G. Porter (Eds.), Fuzzy Planning: The Role of Actors in a Fuzzy Governance Environment (pp. 43-65). Abingdon, Oxon, GBR: Ashgate Publishing Group. Planning models: - Davoudi, S. & Strange, I. (2009). Conceptions of Space and Place in Strategic Spatial Planning. Abingdon, Oxon, GBR: Routledge. - Allmendinger, P. (2002). The Post-Positivist Landscape of Planning Theory. In P. Allmendinger & M. Tewdwr-Jones (Eds.), Planning Futures: New Directions for Planning Theory (pp. 3-17). London: Routledge. - Healey, P. (1997). Collaborative Planning - Shaping places in fragmented societies. London: MacMillan Press. EU as a political context: - Williams, R. H. (1996). European Union Spatial Policy and Planning. London: Sage. Territorial cooperation in Europe: - Dühr, S., Stead, D. & Zonneveld, W. (2007). The Europeanization of spatial planning through territorial cooperation. Planning Practice & Research, 22(3), 291-307. - Dühr, S. & Nadin, V. (2007). Europeanization through transnational territorial cooperation? The case of INTERREG IIIB North-West Europe. Planning Practice and Research, 22(3), 373-394. - Faludi, A. (Ed.) (2002). European Spatial Planning. Cambridge, Mass.: Lincoln institute of land policy. - Faludi, A. (2010). Cohesion, Coherence, Cooperation: European Spatial Planning Coming of Age? London: Routledge. - Faludi, A. (2014). EUropeanisation or Europeanisation of spatial planning? Planning Theory & Practice, 15(2), 155-169. - Kunzmann, K. R. (2006). The Europeanisation of spatial planning. In N. Adams, J. Alden & N. Harris (Eds.), Regional Development and Spatial Planning in an Enlarged European Union. Aldershot: Ashgate. Planning families and cultures: - Newman, P. & Thornley, A. (1996). Urban Plannning in Europe: international competition, national systems and planning projects. London: Routledge. - Knieling, J. & Othengrafen, F. (Eds.). (2009). Planning Cultures in Europe: Decoding Cultural Phenomena in Urban and Regional Planning. Aldershot: Ashgate. - Stead, D., de Vries, J. & Tasan-Kok, T. (2015). Planning Cultures and Histories: Influences on the Evolution of Planning Systems and Spatial Development Patterns. European Planning Studies, 23(11), 2127-2132. - Scholl, B. (Eds.) (2012). Spaces and Places of National Importance. Zurich: ETH vdf Hochschulverlag. Planning systems in Europe: - Nadin, V. & Stead, D. (2008). European Spatial Planning Systems, Social Models and Learning. disP - The Planning Review, 44(172), 35-47. - Commission of the European Communities. (1997). The EU compendium of spatial planning systems and policies. Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications of the European Communities. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Only for master students, otherwise a special permission by the lecturer is required. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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851-0252-08L | Evidence-Based Design: Methods and Tools for Evaluating Architectural Design ![]() ![]() Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH. | W | 3 credits | 2S | C. Hölscher, L. Aguilar Melgar, M. Gath Morad, L. Narvaez Zertuche, C. Veddeler, to be announced | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Students are taught a variety of analytic techniques that can be used to evaluate architectural design. The concept of evidence-based design is introduced, and complemented with theoretical background on space syntax and spatial cognition. This is a project-oriented course, students implement a range of methods on a sample project. The course is tailored for architecture design students. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The course aims to teach students how to evaluate a design project from the perspective of the end user. The concept of evidence-based design is introduced through a series of case studies. Students are given a theoretical background in space syntax and spatial cognition, with a view to applying this knowledge during the design process. The course covers a range of methods including visibility analysis, network analysis, conducting real-world observations, and virtual reality for architectural design. Students apply these methods to a case study of their choice, which can be at building or urban scale. For students taking a B-ARCH or M-ARCH degree, this can be a completed or ongoing design studio project. The course gives students the chance to implement the methods iteratively and explore how best to address the needs of the eventual end-user during the design process. The course is tailored for students studying for B-ARCH and M-ARCH degrees. As an alternative to obtaining D-GESS credit, architecture students can obtain course credit in "Vertiefungsfach" or "Wahlfach". | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
252-0834-00L | Information Systems for Engineers ![]() | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | G. Fourny | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course provides the basics of relational databases from the perspective of the user. We will discover why tables are so incredibly powerful to express relations, learn the SQL query language, and how to make the most of it. The course also covers support for data cubes (analytics). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Do you want to be able to query your own data productively and efficiently in your future semester projects, bachelor's thesis, master thesis, or PhD thesis? Are you looking for something beyond the Python+Pandas hype? This courses teaches you how to do so as well as the dos and don'ts. This lesson is complementary with Big Data for Engineers as they cover different time periods of database history and practices -- you can take them in any order, even though it might be more enjoyable to take this lecture first. After visiting this course, you will be capable to: 1. Explain, in the big picture, how a relational database works and what it can do in your own words. 2. Explain the relational data model (tables, rows, attributes, primary keys, foreign keys), formally and informally, including the relational algebra operators (select, project, rename, all kinds of joins, division, cartesian product, union, intersection, etc). 3. Perform non-trivial reading SQL queries on existing relational databases, as well as insert new data, update and delete existing data. 4. Design new schemas to store data in accordance to the real world's constraints, such as relationship cardinality 5. Explain what bad design is and why it matters. 6. Adapt and improve an existing schema to make it more robust against anomalies, thanks to a very good theoretical knowledge of what is called "normal forms". 7. Understand how indices work (hash indices, B-trees), how they are implemented, and how to use them to make queries faster. 8. Access an existing relational database from a host language such as Java, using bridges such as JDBC. 9. Explain what data independence is all about and didn't age a bit since the 1970s. 10. Explain, in the big picture, how a relational database is physically implemented. 11. Know and deal with the natural syntax for relational data, CSV. 12. Explain the data cube model including slicing and dicing. 13. Store data cubes in a relational database. 14. Map cube queries to SQL. 15. Slice and dice cubes in a UI. And of course, you will think that tables are the most wonderful object in the world. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Using a relational database ================= 1. Introduction 2. The relational model 3. Data definition with SQL 4. The relational algebra 5. Queries with SQL Taking a relational database to the next level ================= 6. Database design theory 7. Databases and host languages 8. Databases and host languages 9. Indices and optimization 10. Database architecture and storage Analytics on top of a relational database ================= 12. Data cubes Outlook ================= 13. Outlook | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | - Lecture material (slides). - Book: "Database Systems: The Complete Book", H. Garcia-Molina, J.D. Ullman, J. Widom (It is not required to buy the book, as the library has it) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | The lecture is hybrid, meaning you can attend with us in the lecture hall, or on Zoom, or watch the recordings on YouTube later. Exercise sessions are in presence. For non-CS/DS students only, BSc and MSc Elementary knowledge of set theory and logics Knowledge as well as basic experience with a programming language such as Pascal, C, C++, Java, Haskell, Python | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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052-0707-00L | Urban Design III ![]() | W | 2 credits | 2V | H. Klumpner, F. T. Salva Rocha Franco | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Students are introduced to a narrative of 'Urban Stories' through a series of three tools driven by social, governance, and environmental transformations in today's urbanization processes. Each lecture explores one city's spatial and organizational ingenuity born out of a particular place's realities, allowing students to transfer these inventions into a catalog of conceptual tools. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | How can students of architecture become active agents of change? What does it take to go beyond a building's scale, making design-relevant decisions to the city rather than a single client? How can we design in cities with a lack of land, tax base, risk, and resilience, understanding that Zurich is the exception and these other cities are the rule? How can we discover, set rather than follow trends and understand existing urban phenomena activating them in a design process? The lecture series produces a growing catalog of operational urban tools across the globe, considering Governance, Social, and Environmental realities. Instead of limited binary comparing of cities, we are building a catalog of change, analyzing what design solutions cities have been developing informally incrementally over time, why, and how. We look at the people, institutions, culture behind the design and make concepts behind these tools visible. Students get first-hand information from cities where the chair as a Team has researched, worked, or constructed projects over the last year, allowing competent, practical insight about the people and topics that make these places unique. Students will be able to use and expand an alternative repertoire of experiences and evidence-based design tools, go to the conceptual core of them, and understand how and to what extent they can be relevant in other places. Urban Stories is the basic practice of architecture and urban design. It introduces a repertoire of urban design instruments to the students to use, test, and start their designs. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Urban form cannot be reduced to physical space. Cities result from social construction, under the influence of technologies, ecology, culture, the impact of experts, and accidents. Urban un-concluded processes respond to political interests, economic pressure, cultural inclinations, along with the imagination of architects and urbanists and the informal powers at work in complex adaptive systems. Current urban phenomena are the result of urban evolution. The facts stored in urban environments include contributions from its entire lifecycle, visible in the physical environment, and non-physical aspects. This imaginary city exists along with its potentials and problems and with the conflicts that have evolved. Knowledge and understanding, along with a critical observation of the actions and policies, are necessary to understand the diversity and instability present in the contemporary city and understand how urban form evolved to its current state. How did cities develop into the cities we live in now? Urban plans, instruments, visions, political decisions, economic reasonings, cultural inputs, and social organization have been used to operate in urban settlements in specific moments of change. We have chosen cities that exemplify how these instruments have been implemented and how they have shaped urban environments. We transcribe these instruments into urban operational tools that we have recognized and collected within existing tested cases in contemporary cities across the globe. This lecture series will introduce urban knowledge and the way it has introduced urban models and operational modes within different concrete realities, therefore shaping cities. The lecture series translates urban knowledge into operational tools, extracted from cities where they have been tested and become exemplary samples, most relevant for understanding how the urban landscape has taken shape. The tools are clustered in twelve thematic clusters and three tool scales for better comparability and cross-reflection. The Tool case studies are compiled into a global urbanization toolbox, which we use as typological models to read the city and critically reflect upon it. The presented contents are meant to serve as inspiration for positioning in future professional life and provide instruments for future design decisions. In an interview with a local designer, we measure our insights against the most pressing design topics in cities today, including inclusion, affordable housing, provision of public spaces, and infrastructure for all. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The learning material, available via https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/ is comprised of the following: - Toolbox 'Reader' with an introduction to the lecture course and tool summaries - Weekly exercise tasks - Infographics with basic information about each city - Quiz question for each tool - Additional reading material - Interviews with experts - Archive of lecture recordings For one-semester students, only a Research will be required. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | - Reading material will be provided throughout the semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-3209-00L | Engineering Design Optimization ![]() | W | 4 credits | 4G | K. Shea, T. Stankovic | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The course covers fundamentals of computational optimization methods in the context of engineering design. It develops skills to formally state and model engineering design tasks as optimization problems and select appropriate methods to solve them. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The lecture and exercises teach the fundamentals of optimization methods in the context of engineering design. After taking the course students will be able to express engineering design problems as formal optimization problems. Students will also be able to select and apply a suitable optimization method given the nature of the optimization model. They will understand the links between optimization and engineering design in order to design more efficient and performance optimized technical products. The exercises are MATLAB based. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | 1. Optimization modeling and theory 2. Unconstrained optimization methods 2. Constrained optimization methods - linear and non-linear 4. Direct search methods 5. Stochastic and evolutionary search methods 6. Multi-objective optimization | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | available on Moodle | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
101-0139-00L | Scientific Machine and Deep Learning for Design and Construction ![]() | W | 3 credits | 4G | B. Bickel, A. Müller, M. Piovarci | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course will present methods of scientific machine and deep learning (ML / DL) for applications in design and construction. After providing proper background on ML and the scientific ML (SciML) track, several applications of SciML together with their computational implementation during the design and construction process of the built environment are examined. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | This course aims to provide a graduate-level introduction to machine learning, with a particular focus on scientific machine learning for applications in the design and construction phases of projects from architecture and civil engineering. Upon completion of the course, the students will be able to: 1. Understand main ML background theory and methods. 2. Assess a problem and apply ML and DL in a computational framework accordingly. 3. Incorporate scientific domain knowledge in the SciML process. 4. Define, plan, conduct and present a SciML project. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The course will include theory and algorithms for SciML, programming assignments, as well as a final project assessment. The topics to be covered are: 1. Fundamentals of Machine and Deep Learning (ML / DL). 2. Incorporation of Domain Knowledge into ML and DL. 3. Generative AI and its applications. 4. ML training, validation and testing pipelines for academic and research projects. A comprehensive series of computer/lab exercises and in-class demonstrations will take place, providing a "hands-on" feel for the course topics. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | The course script is composed by lecture slides, which are available online and will be continuously updated throughout the duration of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Suggested Reading: Marc Peter Deisenroth, A Aldo Faisal, and Cheng Soon Ong Mathematics for Machine Learning K. Murphy. Machine Learning: a Probabilistic Perspective. MIT Press 2012 C. Bishop. Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning. Springer, 2007 S. Guido, A. Müller: Introduction to machine learning with python. O'Reilly Media, 2016 O. Martin: Bayesian analysis with python. Packt Publishing Ltd, 2016 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Familiarity with Python is advised. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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102-0327-01L | Implementation of Environmental and Other Sustainability Goals Master students in Environmental Engineering choosing module Ecological Systems Design are not allowed to enrol 102-0327-01 Advanced Environmental Assessments (2KP) as already included in 102-0307-01 Advanced Environmental, Social and Economic Assessments (5KP). | W | 2 credits | 2G | A. E. Braunschweig | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course teaches approaches and methods to identify, assess and manage environmental (mainly) and societal (to some extent) aspects in organisations. The course contains an introduction to the global ISO 14001 standard on environmental management, into the concept of ecobalance of organisations, and supply chain management, and a general view on how such approaches fit into a management system. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Students will learn to - describe key sustainability problems of the current economic system and measuring units. - describe the management system of an organisation and how to develop a sustainability orientation - discuss approaches to measure environmental performance of an organisation, including 'organisational LCA' (Ecobalance) - explain the pros and cons of single score environmental assessment methods - apply life cycle costing - interpret stakeholder relations of an organisation - (if time allows) describe sustainable supply chain management and stakeholder management | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | - Sustainability problems of the current economic system and its measuring units; - The structure of a management system, and elements to integrate environmental management (ISO 14001) and social management (SA8000), especially into strategy development, planning, controlling and communication; - Sustainability Opportunities and Innovation for companies - The concept of 'continuous Improvement', and its application to environmental management - Life Cycle Costing, as part of Life Cycle Management - environmental performance measurement of an organisation, including 'organisational LCA' (Ecobalance), incl. practical examples of companies - single score environmental assessment methods, with a focus on the 'ecopoints' method - stakeholder management and sustainability oriented communication - an intro into sustainability issues of supply chain management Students will get small homework excercises to apply the course topics and methods issues. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Documents will be available on Ilias | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Will be made available. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is meant for any interested student. (Students of ESD Ecological Systems Design should choose the combined "AESEA" course (102-0307-01), which is specifically offered and mandatory for their module and includes this course. Basic knowledge of environmental assessment tools is a prerequisite for this class. Students who have not yet had classwork in this topic will profit more from this course after reading an appropriate textbook before or at the beginning of this course, e.g. Jolliet, O et al. (2016). Environmental Life Cycle Assessment. CRC Press, Boca Raton - London - New York. ISBN 978-1-4398-8766-0 (Chapters 2-5.2). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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701-1563-00L | Climate Policy | W | 6 credits | 4G | A. Patt, S. Hanger-Kopp | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course provides an in-depth of analysis both of the theoretical underpinnings to different approaches to climate policy at the international and national levels, and how these different approaches have played out in practice. Students will learn how legislative frameworks have developed over the last 25 years, and also be able to appraise those frameworks critically. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The goal is to give students a glimpse into the enormous complexity of this policy area, an understanding of some of the many debates that are currently raging (of which the debate about whether climate change is actually real is probably the least complicated or interesting). We want to give students the ability to evaluate policy arguments made by politicians, experts, and academics with a critical eye, informed by a knowledge of history, an understanding of the theoretical underpinnings, and the results of empirical testing of different strategies. A student taking this course ought to be able to step into an NGO or government agency involved in climate policy analysis or political advocacy, and immediately be able to make an informed and creative contribution. Moreover, by experiencing the depth of this policy area, students should be able to appreciate the complexity inherent in all policy areas. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time, touching all aspects of the environment and of society. There is broad recognition (although with some dissent) that governments ought to do something about it: making sure that emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) stop within the next 20 to 30 years; helping people to adapt to the consequences of the climate change to which we have already committed ourselves; and, most controversially, perhaps taking measures to actively remove GHG’s from the atmosphere, or to alter the radiation balance of the Earth through solar engineering. It’s a complicated set of problems, especially the first of these, known as mitigation. Fundamentally this is because it means doing something that humanity has never really tried before at a planetary scale: deliberately altering the ways the we produce, convert, and consume energy, which is at the heart of modern society. Modern society – the entire anthropocene – grew up on fossil fuels, and the huge benefits they offered in terms of energy that was inexpensive, easy to transport and store, and very dense in terms of its energy content per unit mass or volume. How to manage a society of over 7 billion people, at anything like today’s living standards, without the benefits of that energy, is a question for which there is no easy answer. There are also other challenges outside of energy. How do we build houses, office buildings, and infrastructure networks without cement, a substance that releases large amounts of CO2 as it hardens? How do we reverse the pace of deforestation, particularly in developing countries? How do we eliminate the GHG emissions from agriculture: the methane from cows’ bellies and rice paddies, together with the chemicals that enter the atmosphere from the application of fertilizer? These are all tough questions at a technical level, but even tougher when you consider that governments typically need to employ indirect methods to get these things to happen. Arguably a government could simply pass a law that forbids people from using fossil fuels. But politically this is simply unrealistic, at least while so many people depend on fossil fuels in their daily lives. What is to be done? For this, one needs to turn to various ideas about how government can and should influence society. On the one hand are ideas suggesting that government ought to play a very limited role, relative to private actors, and should step in only to correct “market failures,” with interventions designed specifically around that failure. On the other hand are ideas suggesting that government (meaning all of us, working together through a democratic process) is the appropriate decision-making body for core decisions on where society can and should go. These issues come to the fore in climate policy discussions and debates. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | There will be reading assignments for select classes. All of these will be posted in PDF format on a course Moodle. In addition, there will be one books and one report to be read over the course of the semester. They are: Ministry of the Future, by Kim Stanley Robinson Ten Principles for Policy Making in the Energy Transition, by Laura Diaz Anadon et al. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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151-1633-00L | Energy Conversion This course is intended for students outside of D-MAVT. | W | 4 credits | 3G | G. Sansavini, S. A. Hosseini, I. Karlin | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course provides the students with an introduction to thermodynamics and energy conversion. Students shall gain basic understanding of energy and energy interactions as well as their link to energy conversion technologies. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Thermodynamics is key to understanding and use of energy conversion processes in Nature and technology. Main objective of this course is to give a compact introduction into basics of Thermodynamics: Thermodynamic states and thermodynamic processes; Work and Heat; First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics. Students shall learn how to use energy balance equation in the analysis of power cycles and shall be able to evaluate efficiency of internal combustion engines, gas turbines and steam power plants. The course shall extensively use thermodynamic charts to building up students’ intuition about opportunities and restrictions to increase useful work output of energy conversion. Thermodynamic functions such as entropy, enthalpy and free enthalpy shall be used to understand chemical and phase equilibrium. The course also gives introduction to refrigeration cycles, combustion and refrigeration. The course compactly covers the standard course of thermodynamics for engineers, with additional topics of a general physics interest (nonideal gas equation of state and Joule-Thomson effect) also included. In the course "Energy Conversion", the competencies of process understanding and system understanding are applied and examined and the competencies process understanding and modeling are taught. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | 1. Thermodynamic systems, states and state variables 2. Properties of substances: Water, air and ideal gas 3. Energy conservation in closed and open systems: work, internal energy, heat and enthalpy 4. Second law of thermodynamics and entropy 5. Energy analysis of steam power cycles 6. Energy analysis of gas power cycles 7. Refrigeration and heat pump cycles 8. Nonideal gas equation of state and Joule-Thomson effect 9. Maximal work and exergy 10. Mixtures 11. Chemical reactions and combustion systems; chemical and phase equilibrium | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Lecture slides and supplementary documentation will be available online. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach, by Cengel, Y. A. and Boles, M. A., McGraw Hill | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | This course is intended for students outside of D-MAVT. Students are assumed to have an adequate background in calculus, physics, and engineering mechanics. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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052-1205-24L | Seminar Week Autumn Semester 2024 ![]() | W | 2 credits | 3A | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The seminar week is obligatory for students of all semesters. There are many and varied study contents. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The students will be enabled to discuss narrowly formulated factual questions in small groups and in direct contact with the professors. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
063-0805-24L | History and Theory in Architecture IX: 1990s Theories that Inspired Architecture ![]() | W | 1 credit | 1V | C. Nuijsink | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This course examines a variety of theories – lightness, whiteness, the diagram, public fear, feminism – from other disciplines that entered the architectural debate in the 1990s and have since inspired architects to produce different architectural designs. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | Upon completion of the course, the students will have: (1) recognised the multidisciplinary character of architectural discourse, and the potential for architectural design to interrogate theories from other disciplines (2) acquired in-depth knowledge of a number of theories from other disciplines that have been crucial in shaping current architectural discourse (3) cultivated an understanding that theories are subject to interpretation and reinterpretation over time (4) developed the ability to identify, analyse and interpret positions taken within architectural discussions and architects’ contributions to other disciplines, and acquired the skills to position themselves vis-a-vis theories that have been developed outside the realm of architecture | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | This course will take some of the most provocative thematic issues of the 26 editions of the journal ANY: Architecture New York (1993–2000) as a starting point for discussing non-architectural theories that inspired architects. In 1990, the architects Peter Eisenman, Arata Isozaki, and Ignasi de Solà-Morales, along with the editor Cynthia Davidson, founded the non-profit Anyone Corporation with the goal of stimulating theoretical discourse through cross-disciplinary discussion. The Anyone Corporation began with a series of ten cross-cultural and multidisciplinary conferences, The Any Conferences (1991–2000), which provided a unique forum for architects in the 1990s to discuss architecture from interdisciplinary perspectives while physically spending three days together, fostering constructive feedback. ANY: Architecture New York was a journal launched in 1993 to widen the impact of The Any Conferences and incorporate more young voices around architectural themes discussed by people from outside the field of architecture. As such, the ANY magazine was a critical part of the entire Anyone Project; an activating force that aimed to expand and build on the annual conferences with something that occurred ‘in-between’ the yearly conferences. This course seeks to make architectural students aware of the interdisciplinary character of architecture and ask what we can learn from discussing architecture from multiple disciplinary viewpoints by tackling ANY magazine’s forward-looking themes such as feminism, virtual space, public fear, the mechanical in the electronic era, lightness, and whiteness, topics all highly relevant today. We will examine various cultural and disciplinary perspectives that have been taken on these theories, as well as the fact that they were not immutable but rather developed over time as a result of various interpretations and (mis)translations. More broadly, the goal of this course is to help close the gap between currently available architectural histories – which are primarily centred on architects – and the complex, multidisciplinary reality of the built environment. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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052-0639-24L | Climate Responsive Architecture with Hive ![]() | W | 1 credit | 2G | A. Schlüter | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | This Online course provides an introduction to climate-responsive design using the Hive tool and how to apply it in early building design stages. Hive allows architecture and building science students to understand the relation between architectural design, climate, comfort and energy. Hive is a plugin for the 3D modeling environment Rhino and its visual programming interface Grasshopper. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | • Recall general principles of climate responsive design and examples of it. • Utilize 3D building geometries to conduct simplified energy demand and supply simulations. • Observe relevant physical principles and interactions between climate, energy and geometry. • Implement passive and active concepts for Climate Responsive Design. • Apply Hive for building design analysis and integrate it into own designs or in design courses. • Identify and harness synergies and trade-offs between climate, energy and architectural design aspects. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The course can be frequented individually, or as a prerequisite for other courses such as the master course Climate and Energy Systems 3 or architectural design studios. Modules: 1. Course overview. 2. Introduction to climate responsive design. 3. Introduction to Rhino, Grasshopper and HIVE. 4. Early solar analyses. 5. Passive Solar Design (E.g. Fixed and movable shading). 6. Active Solar Design (E.g. Using Photovoltaics). 7. Real- world Applications and Examples. This is a blended-learning self-paced ONLINE COURSE that can be started at any time. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | A working Rhino 6 or 7 license is necessary. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
052-0731-24L | Global Housing Issues, Challenges and Strategies: Reconstruction After Conflicts & Natural Disasters ![]() | W | 2 credits | 2V | J. E. Duyne Barenstein | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | Can architecture, urban design and planning contribute to housing reconstruction after conflicts and natural disasters? Answers to this question will be provided by researchers and socially engaged architects from Europe, Asia and Latin America through the presentation of concrete case studies and projects. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The current war in Ukraine and the recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria are dramatic reminders about the plight of the millions of people rendered homeless by manmade and natural disasters. Reconstruction after such tragic events requires the support of a large number of architects, urban planners and other built environment professionals with a thorough understanding of the specific issues and challenges entailed in working for and with affected communities. Based on concrete examples and extensive international field experience, the elective course will introduce students to the advantages and risk of different reconstruction approaches, with a specific focus on the links between housing reconstruction policies and community empowerment. A selected number of guest speakers from different countries will present concrete community-driven reconstruction initiatives from across the globe. The elective course aims at raising awareness among students about the complexity of housing reconstruction after disasters and is oriented in particular to those interested in a professional career in the humanitarian sector. The detailed program and recommend readings will be presented at the beginning of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | • General introduction: reconstruction approaches after conflicts and natural disasters • Housing culture and post-tsunami reconstruction in Tamil Nadu, India • Patterns of adaptation to culturally inadequate post-disaster housing • Reconstruction challenges in rural and urban settings • Housing reconstruction in rural and urban Nepal after the 2015 earthquake • Rebuilding communities and schools in Haiti • Learnings from postwar reconstruction in Kosovo • Bottom-up housing initiatives in ongoing conflicts: the case of Ukraine • Humanitarian planning: tackling emergency shelter needs. • Housing initiatives in temporary camps | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | A course overview including lecture summaries is made available to inscribed students prior the start of the semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | A bibliography will be made available to inscribed students prior the start of the semester. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
066-0425-00L | Integrated Design MIBS ![]() ![]() | O | 6 credits | 3V + 3U | A. Schlüter, M. Meshkin Kiya, Z. Shi | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | During the integrated design studio students work on a selected integrated architectural / urban design project, considering both energy- and climate systems (HVAC) as well architectural and urban design in a specific site context. The objective is to follow an integrated design process to achieve synergistic solutions. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The integrated design studio enables students to identify site specific energy demand and potentials, develop integrated energy and climate systems on both the urban and building scale and evaluate their interactions and impact on building design and operation. Retrieving relevant concepts and technologies of energy and HVAC systems, students are able to develop and compare integrated concepts using appropriate methods and digital toolsets and present them to a mixed audience using drawings, renderings and reports. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | During the studio students will work in groups on a contemporary integrated design project (urban and / or building scale) executing an integrated design process from the analysis of site potentials, the identification of demands, the development of an urban scale energy concept and a matching building energy- and HVAC-systems concept. Input lectures from academics and professionals will highlight specific topics relevant to the task. The projects will be presented by the student groups and discussed with internal and external reviewers at midterm and at the final presentations. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Skripts are specific to the design task and distributed at the beginning of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | A literature list will be distributed at the beginning of the course. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Students must have successfully passed the first year of MIBS studies. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
101-0531-00L | Digital Creativity for Circular Construction ![]() All students who register go on a waiting list until 11.09.2024. To register: 1. Enroll before 05.09.2024 2. Send a short motivation letter (max. 300 words) and a 1-page CV to cea-course@ibi.baug.ethz.ch by 05.09.2024 3. MIBS students: This course is mandatory and there is no need to send your application documents Please only register for the course if you really intend to participate on all course dates (see course catalog), otherwise, you will deprive someone else of a place. | W | 8 credits | 7.5P | C. De Wolf | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The course is about digital innovation towards a circular economy in the built environment. How can we bring together two worlds that are often too distinct: low-impact construction and digital innovation? Bringing digital tools already used in other sectors into the construction sector, students will learn about circular construction (e.g., reuse of materials) through hands-on learning practices. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | In the fall semester 2024 we will focus on applying artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (XR) to the circular design workflow and. The course will be taught at the Kunsthalle Zurich as part of an exhibition. By the end of this course, students will be able to use augmented computational design enabling circular construction, with a view to environmental implications. They will be able to assess the challenges and opportunities of low-carbon, circular construction and evaluate possible solutions using digital technologies to enable a circular built environment (more specifically, with reused building materials). To achieve this, they need to be able to do the following: 1. Apply circular principles using recovered building materials. 2. Compare different digital technologies applied in circular construction (e.g., LiDARscanning, drone imagery, photogrammetry, computational design, AI, computer vision, XR, LCA tools etc.) 3. Understand the potential and limitations of AI for circular construction, e.g. use machine learning to detect and digitize materials (computer vision) or to support creativity in the early design phases of circular construction (generative AI). 4. Communicate the importance and urgency of circular construction. 5. Assess the environmental impact implications of their design and technology decisions through a preliminary Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | Students will receive an introduction to circular principles by experts from the building industry and visit of (de-)construction sites where circular construction is exemplified. They will explore how to use digital technologies such as LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, scan-to-BIM,computer vision, computational design, digital fabrication, blockchain technology and learn about the design implications using reclaimed building materials. This course is meant as an overview/introduction of many digital technologies that could be useful for circularity and gives the tools to students to further study the technologies they are most interested in on their own. Creativity in writing, filmmaking, design, construction, etc. is expected from the students. This course will give the tools to students to learn more on LCA if they wish to deepen their knowledge further. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Lecture notes | Language: English Courses are on Tuesday afternoons in Kunsthalle or a room at ETH, but also require out-of-the-semester work and significant homework and site visits outside of class hours. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Literature | Çetin, S., De Wolf, C., Bocken, N. (2022) "Circular Digital Built Environment: An Emerging Framework." Sustainability - Circular Economy in the Digital Age special issue, 13, 6348, DOI: 10.3390/su13116348 De Wolf, C. (2022) "4 promising digital technologies for circular construction." World Economic Forum, September 13, Link Raghu, D., Marengo, M., Markopoulou, A., Neri, I., Chronis, A., and De Wolf, C. (2022) "Enabling Component Reuse from Existing Buildings. Using Google Street View and Machine Learning to Enhance Building Databases." The Association of Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Sydney, AU, April 5-9. Gorden, M., Batallé, A., De Wolf, C., Sollazo, A., Dubor, A., Wang, T. (2022) "Automating Building Element Detection for Deconstruction Planning and Material Reuse: A Case Study" Automation in Construction. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Prerequisites / Notice | Interest in Digitalisation and Construction. Flexibility: This is a hands-on course, where students explore digital technologies and opportunities/challenges of reuse. Flexibility (e.g. adapting to unforeseen circumstances), responsibility (e.g. arriving on time for safety briefing), and spontaneity (e.g. finding innovative solutions) is expected from the students to adapt to the contingencies from demolition and construction sites with reused materials. The course is mandatory for MIBS students. If you are a first year MIBS student, please do not apply, you are automatically accepted. All other students from other departments should apply. Please only register for the course if you really intend to participate on all course dates (see course catalog). Please only register for the course if you are willing to send us a letter of motivation and really intend to participate; otherwise, you will deprive someone else of a place. All non-MIBS students who register go onto a waiting list until 11.09.2024 and up to 25 of them will be selected by the lecturer. To register: 1. Enroll before 05.09.2024. 2. Send a short letter of motivation (max. 300 words) and a 1-page CV to cea-course@ibi.baug.ethz.ch by 05.09.2024. Collaborators: Kunsthalle Zürich, ETH AI Center, Design++ | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
066-0431-00L | Semester Project MIBS ![]() ![]() The semester project can commence only after the first year of coursework is completed. | O | 6 credits | 13A | Supervisors | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | The semester project focuses in solving specific research questions in the field of integrated building systems. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | The semester project is designed to train students in solving specific research questions in the field of integrated building systems. The goal is to apply acquired knowledge which is gained throughout the first year of the master's program. The semester project is advised by a professor who is affiliated with one of the partner departments of the Master program "Integrated building systems". | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | The semester project is designed to train students in solving specific research questions in the field of integrated building systems. The goal is to apply acquired knowledge which is gained throughout the first year of the master's program. The semester project is advised by a professor who is affiliated with one of the partner departments of the Master program "Integrated building systems". | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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» see Science in Perspective: Language Courses ETH/UZH | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
» see Science in Perspective: Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Capability | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
» Recommended Science in Perspective (Type B) for D-ARCH | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
066-0434-00L | Master's Thesis ![]() Only students who fulfill the following criteria are allowed to begin with their master thesis: a. successful completion of the bachelor programme; b. fulfilling of any additional requirements necessary to gain admission to the master programme. Master thesis are supervised and reviewed by one or several professors and possibly by other persons at the same time. At least one professor has to be a member of a department involved in the study programme (article 2). This regulation is also valid for master thesis taking place outside ETH Zurich. | O | 30 credits | 40D | Professors | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Abstract | A 6-months Master thesis completes the Master's program of Integrated Building Systems. With the thesis project students are expected to demonstrate their ability to independent and structured scientific thinking. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning objective | A 6-months Master thesis completes the Master's program of Integrated Building Systems. With the thesis project students are expected to demonstrate their ability to independent and structured scientific thinking. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Content | A 6-months Master thesis completes the Master's program of Integrated Building Systems. With the thesis project students are expected to demonstrate their ability to independent and structured scientific thinking. The thesis can be performed either at ETH Zurich, an industrial enterprise, or in a research institution, but has to be advised by one or more professors affiliated with the Master program "Integrated building systems". The responsible supervisor defines the topic in consultation with the student, together with the scope of work, criteria of assessment, and dates of beginning and delivery of the work. |