Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2017

Geomatic Engineering Master Information
Major Courses
Major in Engineering Geodesy and Photogrammetry
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0287-00LImage InterpretationO4 credits3GK. Schindler
AbstractIntroduction to interactive, semi-automatic and automatic methods for image interpretation and data analysis; methodological aspects of computer-assisted remote sensing, including semantic image classification and segmentation; detection and extraction of individual objects; estimation of physical parameters.
ObjectiveUnderstanding the tasks, problems, and applications of image interpretation; basic introduction of computational methods for image-based classification and parameter estimation (clustering, classification, regression), with focus on remote sensing.
ContentImage (and point-cloud) interpretation tasks: semantic classification (e.g. land-cover mapping), physical parameter estimation (e.g. forest biomass), object extraction (e.g. roads, buildings), visual driver assistance;
Image coding and features; probabilistic inference, generative and discriminative models; clustering and segmentation; continuous parameter estimation, regression; classification and labeling; atmospheric influences in satellite remote sensing;
LiteratureJ. A. Richards: Remote Sensing Digital Image Analysis - An Introduction
C. Bishop: Pattern Recognition and Machine Learning
Prerequisites / Noticebasics of probability theory and statistics; basics of image processing; elementary programming skills (Matlab);
103-0137-00LEngineering GeodesyO4 credits3GA. Wieser, E. Serantoni
AbstractIntroduction to Engineering Geodesy: methods, instruments, and applications.
ObjectiveThe students will be introduced to the methods, instruments and applications in Engineering Geodesy with a focus on end-to-end quality assessment, sensor and multi-sensor-systems, setting out, and monitoring of engineering objects. They will be able to acquire enhanced knowledge and fundamental competences in high-precision angle, distance and height measurements. They will be introduced to aspects of interdisciplinary work in particular related to construction processes and civil engineering.
Content- Introduction: Definition, methods, and tasks
- Planning and realizing geodetic networks
- High precision distance, angle and height measurements
- Sensors and multi-sensor-systems
- Calibration and testing
- Engineering Geodesy in construction above and below ground
- Tunnel surveying
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- Deformation monitoring: Models, methods, and applications
Lecture notesThe slides and additional documents will be provided in electronic form.
LiteratureKavanagh B.F. (2010) Surveying with Construction Applications. Prentice Hall.

Schofield W., Breach M. (2007) Engineering Surveying. Elsevier Ltd.
Prerequisites / NoticeFundamental knowledge in geodetic metrology (applied geodesy), physical geodesy, reference systems, GNSS and parameter estimation is required for this course. This knowledge can for instance been acquired within the appropriate courses of the bachelor studies in Geomatics and Planning.
103-0267-01LPhotogrammetry and 3D Vision Lab Information
Prerequisites: It is suggested that students take the course "Photogrammetrie" at bachelor level before this one.
W3 credits2GJ. D. Wegner
AbstractThe course deals with selected topics of close-range photogrammetry and geometric computer vision, including wide-baseline image matching and reconstruction, dense surface reconstruction, image search and indexing; emphasis is put on reading and self-study and on practical project work, typically in groups.
ObjectiveThe aim of the course is to get to know the methods and practice of close-range photogrammetric reconstruction, and an in-depth understanding of selected topics in modern close-range photogrammetry and computer vision.
ContentThis course builds in part on the courses "Photogrammetrie", "Bildverarbeitung" and "Photogrammetrie II" from the Bachelor program. It focusses on the particular challenges of automated close-range photogrammetry.
Lecture notesPresentation slides, necessary publications and complementary learning materials will be provided through a dedicated course web-site.
LiteratureRecommended textbooks:
- T. Luhmann. Nahbereichsphotogrammetrie (also available in English )
- R. Hartley and A. Zisserman. Multi-view geometry in computer vision
- R. Szeliski. Computer Vision
Prerequisites / NoticeA recommended prerequisite for taking this course are the Bachelor courses "Photogrammetrie", "Bildverarbeitung" and "Photogrammetrie II". If you have not passed them, please contact the main lecturer of the course before enrolling. The course will include both practical work with commercial software, and programming in Matlab.
103-0767-00LEngineering Geodesy LabW4 credits3PA. Wieser, Z. Gojcic
AbstractDevelopment of concepts and solutions for challenging tasks in Engineering Geodesy using real-world examples
ObjectiveThe students learn to develop, assess and realize concepts and solutions for real-world problems in Engineering Geodesy. They advance the knowledge and skills which they have acquired in relation with geodetic metrology, engineering geodesy. They establish links between these subjects. Particular attention is paid to the selection of appropriate sensors and measurement systems, selection of appropriate measurement and data processing methods, end-to-end quality control, fulfillment of non-technical criteria, and to the documentation of the work.
ContentA geodetic network for highly precise coordinate and direction transfer from outside pillars to pillars in the geodetic metrology lab of the Institute of Geodesy and Photogrammetry will be designed and planned. Different methods for plumbing, height transfer and azimuth determination will be included. The measurements will be carried out and post-processed in teams. Finally, the network design, the observation schedule and the results will be critically evaluated.
Lecture notesPublications and documents are made available as needed depending on the selected tasks.
Literature- Möser, M. et al. (2000): Handbuch Ingenieurgeodäsie, Grundlagen. Wichmann, Heidelberg.
- Heunecke et al. (2013): Handbuch Ingenieurgeodäsie, Auswertung geodätischer Überwachungsmessungen. 2. Aufl., Wichmann, Heidelberg.
- Schofield, W. and Breach, M. (2007): Engineering Surveying. 6th Edition, CRC, Boca Raton, USA.
- Caspary, W.F. (2000): Concepts of Network and Deformation Analysis. School of Geomatic Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
Prerequisites / NoticeSuccessful participation in the lab requires knowledge and experiences conveyed within the related course "Engineering Geodesy". Students who have not already passed that course and who are not participating in that course will only be admitted to the lab after discussion with the instructors.

If the timetable of the participants allows it, the 3-hourly lab units will partially be combined to individual full-time units.
103-0787-00LProject Parameter EstimationW3 credits3PA. Wieser, J. A. Butt
AbstractSolving engineering problems with modern methods of parameter estimation for network adjustment in a real-world scenario; choosing adequate mathematical models, implementation and assessment of the solutions.
ObjectiveLearn to solve engineering problems with modern methods of parameter estimation in a real-world scenario.
ContentAnalysis of given problems, selection of appropriate mathematical modells, implementation and testing using Matlab: Kriging; system calibration of a terrestrial laser scanner.
Lecture notesThe task assignments and selected documentation will be provided as PDF.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: Statistics and Probability Theory, Geoprocessing and Parameterestimation, Geodetic Reference Systems and Networks
102-0617-00LBasics and Principles of Radar Remote Sensing for Environmental ApplicationsW3 credits2GI. Hajnsek
AbstractThe course will provide the basics and principles of Radar Remote Sensing (specifically Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)) and its imaging techniques for the use of environmental parameter estimation.
ObjectiveThe course should provide an understanding of SAR techniques and the use of the imaging tools for bio/geophysical parameter estimation. At the end of the course the student has the understanding of
1. SAR basics and principles,
2. SAR polarimetry,
3. SAR interferometry and
4. environmental parameter estimation from multi-parametric SAR data
ContentThe course is giving an introduction into SAR techniques, the interpretation of SAR imaging responses and the use of SAR for different environmental applications. The outline of the course is the following:
1. Introduction into SAR basics and principles
2. Introduction into electromagnetic wave theory
3. Introduction into scattering theory and decomposition techniques
4. Introduction into SAR interferometry
5. Introduction into polarimetric SAR interferometry
6. Introduction into bio/geophysical parameter estimation (classification/segmentation, soil moisture estimation, earth quake and volcano monitoring, forest height inversion, wood biomass estimation etc.)
Lecture notesHandouts for each topic will be provided
LiteratureFirst readings for the course:
Woodhouse, I. H., Introduction into Microwave Remote Sensing, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2006.
Lee, J.-S., Pottier, E., Polarimetric Radar Imaging: From Basics to Applications, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2009.
Complete literature listing will be provided during the course.
851-0724-00LProperty Law for Geometers: Land Registry and Geoinformation Law
Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BAUG, D-USYS
W2 credits2VM. Huser
AbstractFundamental concepts of Land Register Law and Land Surveying Law (substantive and procedural rules of Land Register Law, the parts and the relevance of the Land Register, process of registration with the Land Register, legal problems of land surveying, reform of the official land surveying).
ObjectiveOverview of the legal norms of land registry and surveying law.
ContentBasic principles of material and formal land registry law, components of the land register, consequences of the land register, the registration process, legal problems of surveying, the reform of official surveying, liability of the geom-eter. The lecture unit is carried out within a frame of 8 sessions (2 hours): the first hour of each is given in the form of a lecture, the second in the form of a case-study.
Lecture notesAbgegebene Unterlagen: Skript in digitaler Form

Pflichtlektüre: Meinrad Huser, Schweizerisches Vermessungsrecht, unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Geoinformationsrechts und des Grundbuchrechts, Beiträge aus dem Institut für schweizerisches und internationales Baurecht der Universität Freiburg/Schweiz, Zürich 2014
Literature- Meinrad Huser, Schweizerisches Vermessungsrecht, unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Geoinformationsrecht und des Grundbuchrechts, Zürich 2014
- Meinrad Huser, Geo-Informationsrecht, Rechtlicher Rahmen für Geographische Informationssyteme, Zürich 2005
- Meinrad Huser, Darstellung von Grenzen zur Sicherung dinglicher Rechte, in ZBGR 2013, 238 ff.
- Meinrad Huser, Baubeschränkungen und Grundbuch, in BR/DC 4/2016, 197 ff.
- Meinrad Huser, Publikation von Eigentumsbeschränkungen - neue Regeln, in Baurecht 4/2010, S. 169
- Meinrad Huser, Datenschutz bei Geodaten
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Property Law (12-722)
103-0687-00LCadastral SystemsW2 credits2GD. M. Steudler
AbstractNature, role and importance of cadastral systems and related concepts such as land administration, land registration and spatial data infrastructures (SDIs).
ObjectiveThe students will get an understanding of the nature, role and importance of cadastral systems and related concepts such as land administration, land registration and spatial data infrastructures (SDIs). The Swiss cadastral system as well as a range of international approaches both in developed and developing countries will be reviewed.
ContentOrigins and purposes of cadastral systems
Importance of documentation
Basic concepts of cadastral systems (real estate, legal basis, conceptual
principles, property-ownership, property types)
Swiss cadastral system:
- legal basis
- organization
- technical elements
- methods of data acquisition and maintenance
- profession
- quality assurance
Digital revolution, access to data
Benchmarking and evaluation of cadastral systems
International trends, developments and initiatives
Lecture notessee: Link
LiteratureLarsson, G. (1991). Land Registration and Cadastral Systems: Tools for Land
Information and Management. Harlow, Essex, England: Longman Scientific and
Technical, New York: Wiley, ISBN 0-582-08952-2, 175 p.

see also: Link
263-5902-00LComputer Vision Information W6 credits3V + 1U + 1AL. Van Gool, V. Ferrari, A. Geiger
AbstractThe goal of this course is to provide students with a good understanding of computer vision and image analysis techniques. The main concepts and techniques will be studied in depth and practical algorithms and approaches will be discussed and explored through the exercises.
ObjectiveThe objectives of this course are:
1. To introduce the fundamental problems of computer vision.
2. To introduce the main concepts and techniques used to solve those.
3. To enable participants to implement solutions for reasonably complex problems.
4. To enable participants to make sense of the computer vision literature.
ContentCamera models and calibration, invariant features, Multiple-view geometry, Model fitting, Stereo Matching, Segmentation, 2D Shape matching, Shape from Silhouettes, Optical flow, Structure from motion, Tracking, Object recognition, Object category recognition
Prerequisites / NoticeIt is recommended that students have taken the Visual Computing lecture or a similar course introducing basic image processing concepts before taking this course.
052-0523-17L360° - Reality to Virtuality Information Restricted registration - show details W4 credits4GK. Sander, A. Wieser
AbstractBasics of 3D-scanning of rooms and bodies, individual scan projects, 3D-visualizations and animations. Definition and realization of a project, working alone and in groups.
ObjectiveUnderstanding 3D-technologies, handling positive and negative spaces, handling hardware and software, processing 3D point clouds (registering scans, filtering, merging of data sets, precision, visualizations, animation), interpretation of the generated data.
Content1. Introduction to 3D laser scanning (getting to know technologies, methods and context; carry out practical tests)
2. Project development within the group (idea, concept, target, intention, selection of methods & strategies)
3. Project implementation within the group (possible results, videos, pictures, prints, publications, web, blog, forum etc.)
4. Project presentation (exhibition incl. critiques, discussions)
Major in Space Geodesy and Navigation
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0187-01LSpace GeodesyO4 credits3GM. Rothacher
AbstractGPS, VLBI, SLR/LLR and satellite altimetry: Principles, instrumentation and observation equation. Modelling and estimation of station coordinates and station motion. Ionospheric and tropospheric refraction and estimation of atmospheric parameters. Equation of motion of the unperturbed and perturbed satellite orbit. Perturbation theory and orbit determination.
ObjectiveUnderstanding the major observation techniques in space geodesy as modern methods applied in Earth system monitoring (geometry, rotation and gravity field of the Earth and the atmosphere), in national surveying and navigation.
ContentOverview of GPS, VLBI, Satellite and Lunar Laser Ranging (SLR/LLR), Satellite Radar Altimetry with the basic principles, the instruments and observation equations. Modelling of the station motions and the estimation of station coordinates. Basics of wave propagation in the atmosphere. Signal propagation in the ionosphere and troposphere for the different observation techniques and the determination of atmospheric parameters.
Equation of motion of the unperturbed and perturbed satellite orbit. Osculating and mean orbital elements. General and special perturbation theory and the determination of satellite orbits.
Lecture notesScript M. Rothacher "Space Geodesy"
103-0657-01LSignal Processing, Modeling, InversionO3 credits2GA. Geiger
AbstractTimeseries analysis, orthogonal decomposition, Interpretation of measurements, Parameterestimation and Inversion of analytical and voxel-type models
ObjectiveStudents are able to analyse data in view of specific scientific questions and interpretations. They have basic methodologies at hand to mathematically formulate engineering and scientific problems. Students know terminologies and basic methodologies in order to be able to further study the expert litrature.
ContentTimeseries analysis, fourier transformation, DFT, auto-, crosscorrelation, ARMA Interpretation of measurements, Parameterestimation and Inversion of analytical and voxel-type models, resolution, uncertainties
Lecture notesLecture notes
Geoprocessing
Alain Geiger
Prerequisites / NoticeCourses corresponding to:
Analysis I+II, Geoprocessing and Parameterestimation, Linear Algebra I
103-0627-00LAstro and Gravity LabW5 credits4PS. Guillaume
AbstractKnowledge of up-to-date astro-geodetic methods aiming at the determination of the direction of the local plumb line in terms of astronomical latitude and longitude.
ObjectiveKnowledge of the astro-geodetic methods aiming at the determination of the direction of the local plumb line in terms of astronomical latitude and longitude.
ContentEarth- and space fixed coordinate systems and their changes in time, basic astronomic calculation procedures, time scales, time keeping, transformations, star catalogues, computation of precise apparent places, relevant methods for the determination of latitude/longitude, CCD technique and astrometry, application of deflections of the vertical as regards the geoid determination.
Lecture notesdiv. sources
Literatureadditional literature will be distributed during lectures
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lectures will be given in English in case of need
103-0787-00LProject Parameter EstimationW3 credits3PA. Wieser, J. A. Butt
AbstractSolving engineering problems with modern methods of parameter estimation for network adjustment in a real-world scenario; choosing adequate mathematical models, implementation and assessment of the solutions.
ObjectiveLearn to solve engineering problems with modern methods of parameter estimation in a real-world scenario.
ContentAnalysis of given problems, selection of appropriate mathematical modells, implementation and testing using Matlab: Kriging; system calibration of a terrestrial laser scanner.
Lecture notesThe task assignments and selected documentation will be provided as PDF.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: Statistics and Probability Theory, Geoprocessing and Parameterestimation, Geodetic Reference Systems and Networks
102-0617-00LBasics and Principles of Radar Remote Sensing for Environmental ApplicationsW3 credits2GI. Hajnsek
AbstractThe course will provide the basics and principles of Radar Remote Sensing (specifically Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)) and its imaging techniques for the use of environmental parameter estimation.
ObjectiveThe course should provide an understanding of SAR techniques and the use of the imaging tools for bio/geophysical parameter estimation. At the end of the course the student has the understanding of
1. SAR basics and principles,
2. SAR polarimetry,
3. SAR interferometry and
4. environmental parameter estimation from multi-parametric SAR data
ContentThe course is giving an introduction into SAR techniques, the interpretation of SAR imaging responses and the use of SAR for different environmental applications. The outline of the course is the following:
1. Introduction into SAR basics and principles
2. Introduction into electromagnetic wave theory
3. Introduction into scattering theory and decomposition techniques
4. Introduction into SAR interferometry
5. Introduction into polarimetric SAR interferometry
6. Introduction into bio/geophysical parameter estimation (classification/segmentation, soil moisture estimation, earth quake and volcano monitoring, forest height inversion, wood biomass estimation etc.)
Lecture notesHandouts for each topic will be provided
LiteratureFirst readings for the course:
Woodhouse, I. H., Introduction into Microwave Remote Sensing, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2006.
Lee, J.-S., Pottier, E., Polarimetric Radar Imaging: From Basics to Applications, CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2009.
Complete literature listing will be provided during the course.
103-0687-00LCadastral SystemsW2 credits2GD. M. Steudler
AbstractNature, role and importance of cadastral systems and related concepts such as land administration, land registration and spatial data infrastructures (SDIs).
ObjectiveThe students will get an understanding of the nature, role and importance of cadastral systems and related concepts such as land administration, land registration and spatial data infrastructures (SDIs). The Swiss cadastral system as well as a range of international approaches both in developed and developing countries will be reviewed.
ContentOrigins and purposes of cadastral systems
Importance of documentation
Basic concepts of cadastral systems (real estate, legal basis, conceptual
principles, property-ownership, property types)
Swiss cadastral system:
- legal basis
- organization
- technical elements
- methods of data acquisition and maintenance
- profession
- quality assurance
Digital revolution, access to data
Benchmarking and evaluation of cadastral systems
International trends, developments and initiatives
Lecture notessee: Link
LiteratureLarsson, G. (1991). Land Registration and Cadastral Systems: Tools for Land
Information and Management. Harlow, Essex, England: Longman Scientific and
Technical, New York: Wiley, ISBN 0-582-08952-2, 175 p.

see also: Link
851-0724-00LProperty Law for Geometers: Land Registry and Geoinformation Law
Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BAUG, D-USYS
W2 credits2VM. Huser
AbstractFundamental concepts of Land Register Law and Land Surveying Law (substantive and procedural rules of Land Register Law, the parts and the relevance of the Land Register, process of registration with the Land Register, legal problems of land surveying, reform of the official land surveying).
ObjectiveOverview of the legal norms of land registry and surveying law.
ContentBasic principles of material and formal land registry law, components of the land register, consequences of the land register, the registration process, legal problems of surveying, the reform of official surveying, liability of the geom-eter. The lecture unit is carried out within a frame of 8 sessions (2 hours): the first hour of each is given in the form of a lecture, the second in the form of a case-study.
Lecture notesAbgegebene Unterlagen: Skript in digitaler Form

Pflichtlektüre: Meinrad Huser, Schweizerisches Vermessungsrecht, unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Geoinformationsrechts und des Grundbuchrechts, Beiträge aus dem Institut für schweizerisches und internationales Baurecht der Universität Freiburg/Schweiz, Zürich 2014
Literature- Meinrad Huser, Schweizerisches Vermessungsrecht, unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Geoinformationsrecht und des Grundbuchrechts, Zürich 2014
- Meinrad Huser, Geo-Informationsrecht, Rechtlicher Rahmen für Geographische Informationssyteme, Zürich 2005
- Meinrad Huser, Darstellung von Grenzen zur Sicherung dinglicher Rechte, in ZBGR 2013, 238 ff.
- Meinrad Huser, Baubeschränkungen und Grundbuch, in BR/DC 4/2016, 197 ff.
- Meinrad Huser, Publikation von Eigentumsbeschränkungen - neue Regeln, in Baurecht 4/2010, S. 169
- Meinrad Huser, Datenschutz bei Geodaten
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Property Law (12-722)
Major in GIS and Cartography
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0227-00LCartography III Information O5 credits4GL. Hurni
AbstractBasic methods, technologies, scripting, and systems for interactive web mapping projects and in the internet cartography.
ObjectiveGain knowledge about basic methods, technologies, scripting, and systems for interactive web mapping projects. Assessment of existing products regarding production methods. Definition of useful methods for Web-based map projects.
Content- Web mapping
- Web Map Services (WMS)
- User Interface design
- Symbolisation
- Programming
- JavaScript
- Debugging
- Map production using GIS data
- 3D applications in cartography
Lecture notesOwn script and instructions will be distributed.
Literature- Grünreich, Dietmar, Hake, Günter and Liqiu Meng (2002): Kartographie, 8. Auflage, Verlag W. de Gruyter, Berlin
- Robinson, Arthur et al. (1995): Elements of Cartography, 6th edition, John Wiley & Sons, New York, ISBN 0-471-55579-7
- Jones, Christopher (1997): Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Computer Cartography, Longman, Harlow, ISBN 0-582-04439-1
- Stoll, Heinz (2001): Computergestützte Kartografie, SGK-Publikation Nr. 15 (siehe Link)
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Kartografie I; Kartografie II; Thematische Kartografie
Further information at Link
103-0237-00LGIS IIIO5 credits3GM. Raubal
AbstractThe course deals with advanced topics in GIS: GIS project lifecycle, Managing GIS, Legal issues, GIS assets & constraints; Geospatial Web Services; Geostatistics; Geosimulation; Human-Computer Interaction; Cognitive Issues in GIS.
ObjectiveStudents will get a detailed overview of advanced GIS topics. They will go through all steps of setting up a Web-GIS application in the labs and perform other practical tasks relating to Geosimulation, Human-Computer Interaction, Geostatistics, and Web Processing Services.
Lecture notesLecture slides will be made available in digital form.
LiteratureFu, P. and Sun, J., Web GIS - Principles and Applications (2011), ESRI Press, Redlands, California.
O'Sullivan, D., & Unwin, D. (2010). Geographic Information Analysis (second ed.). Hoboken, New Jersey: Wiley.
103-0747-00LCartography Lab Information W6 credits13AL. Hurni
AbstractIndependent practical work in cartography
ObjectiveIndependent practical work in cartography
ContentChoice of theme upon individual agreement
Prerequisites / NoticeGerman or English
Further information at Link
103-0687-00LCadastral SystemsW2 credits2GD. M. Steudler
AbstractNature, role and importance of cadastral systems and related concepts such as land administration, land registration and spatial data infrastructures (SDIs).
ObjectiveThe students will get an understanding of the nature, role and importance of cadastral systems and related concepts such as land administration, land registration and spatial data infrastructures (SDIs). The Swiss cadastral system as well as a range of international approaches both in developed and developing countries will be reviewed.
ContentOrigins and purposes of cadastral systems
Importance of documentation
Basic concepts of cadastral systems (real estate, legal basis, conceptual
principles, property-ownership, property types)
Swiss cadastral system:
- legal basis
- organization
- technical elements
- methods of data acquisition and maintenance
- profession
- quality assurance
Digital revolution, access to data
Benchmarking and evaluation of cadastral systems
International trends, developments and initiatives
Lecture notessee: Link
LiteratureLarsson, G. (1991). Land Registration and Cadastral Systems: Tools for Land
Information and Management. Harlow, Essex, England: Longman Scientific and
Technical, New York: Wiley, ISBN 0-582-08952-2, 175 p.

see also: Link
851-0724-00LProperty Law for Geometers: Land Registry and Geoinformation Law
Particularly suitable for students of D-ARCH, D-BAUG, D-USYS
W2 credits2VM. Huser
AbstractFundamental concepts of Land Register Law and Land Surveying Law (substantive and procedural rules of Land Register Law, the parts and the relevance of the Land Register, process of registration with the Land Register, legal problems of land surveying, reform of the official land surveying).
ObjectiveOverview of the legal norms of land registry and surveying law.
ContentBasic principles of material and formal land registry law, components of the land register, consequences of the land register, the registration process, legal problems of surveying, the reform of official surveying, liability of the geom-eter. The lecture unit is carried out within a frame of 8 sessions (2 hours): the first hour of each is given in the form of a lecture, the second in the form of a case-study.
Lecture notesAbgegebene Unterlagen: Skript in digitaler Form

Pflichtlektüre: Meinrad Huser, Schweizerisches Vermessungsrecht, unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Geoinformationsrechts und des Grundbuchrechts, Beiträge aus dem Institut für schweizerisches und internationales Baurecht der Universität Freiburg/Schweiz, Zürich 2014
Literature- Meinrad Huser, Schweizerisches Vermessungsrecht, unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des Geoinformationsrecht und des Grundbuchrechts, Zürich 2014
- Meinrad Huser, Geo-Informationsrecht, Rechtlicher Rahmen für Geographische Informationssyteme, Zürich 2005
- Meinrad Huser, Darstellung von Grenzen zur Sicherung dinglicher Rechte, in ZBGR 2013, 238 ff.
- Meinrad Huser, Baubeschränkungen und Grundbuch, in BR/DC 4/2016, 197 ff.
- Meinrad Huser, Publikation von Eigentumsbeschränkungen - neue Regeln, in Baurecht 4/2010, S. 169
- Meinrad Huser, Datenschutz bei Geodaten
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: Property Law (12-722)
103-0258-00LInteroperability of GISW4 credits3GM. Krummenacher
AbstractContent: Transform back and forth (geo-)data with same content but different structure.
Themes: System-neutral model-driven approach with reality selection, conceptual modelling, flexible standard formats, 1:1 processors and semantic transformation.
Tools: Conceptual schema languages UML and INTERLIS, formats ITF, XML, tools ILI-Checker and awk, and for the semantic transformation UMLT and FME.
Objective- Explain and apply the model-driven approach based on standards
- Know and use interoperability types
- Know transfer formats and reformat with 1:1 processors
- Explain object-oriented modelling (with graphic and text)
- Know and use communication technologies and OGC Web services
- UML, EBNF, INTERLIS, ITF, XML, awk, FME
- Know and apply appropriate software tools
ContentSemantic interoperability of GIS is in the main part of this lecture and means to transform back and forth (geo-) data with same content but different structure. The reduction of the necessary programming amount to a modest minimum is provided by the system-independent model-driven approach. Its elements reality selection, conceptual modelling, flexible standard formats, 1:1 processors and semantic transformation are presented and used. As generally useful tools are introduced and applied the conceptual schema languages UML and INTERLIS, the flexible transfer formats ITF, XML the ILI-Checker, the efficient reformatting tool awk and for the semantic transformation UMLT and FME.
Prerequisites / NoticeCondition for participation: Successful bachelor lecture GIS II
103-0778-00LGIS and Geoinformatics LabW4 credits4PM. Raubal
AbstractIndependent study project with (mobile) geoinformation technologies.
ObjectiveLearn how to work with (mobile) geoinformation technologies (including application design and programming).
Major in Planning
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0347-00LLandscape Planning and Environmental Systems Restricted registration - show details
Only for master students, otherwise a special permisson by the lecturers is required.
O3 credits2VA. Grêt-Regamey
AbstractIn the course, methods for the identification and measurement of landscape characteristics, as well as measures and implementation of landscape planning are taught. Landscape planning is put into the context of the environmental systems (soil, water, air, climate, flora and fauna) and discussed with regard to socio-political questions of the future.
ObjectiveThe aims of this course are:
1) To illustrate the concept of landscape planning, the economic relevance of landscape and nature in the context of the environmental systems (soil, water, air, climate, flora and fauna).
2) To show landscape planning as an integral information system for the coordination of different instruments by illustrating the aims, methods, instruments and their functions in landscape planning.
3) To show the importance of ecosystem services.
4) To point out basic information about nature and landscape: Analysis and assessment of the complex interactions between landscape elements, effects of existing and foreseeable utilization of space (nature goods and services and landscape functions).
5) To identify and measure the characteristics of landscape.
6) Learn how to use the instrument of GIS appropriately in landscape planning.
ContentIn this course, the following topics are discussed:
- Definition of the concept of landscape
- Landscape change
- Landscape planning
- Methods, instruments and aims of landscape planning (politics)
- Socio-political questions of the future
- Environmental systems, IUCN Red List, ecological connectivity
- Urban landscape services
- Practice of landscape planning
- Use of GIS in landscape planning
Lecture notesNo script. The documentation, consisting of presentation slides are partly handed out and are provided for download on the PLUS website.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe contents of the course will be illustrated in the associated lecture 103-0347-01 U (Landscape Planning and Environmental Systems (GIS Exercises)). An combination of courses is recommended.
103-0337-00LSite and Project DevelopementW3 credits2GG. Nussbaumer, M. Sudau
AbstractThe main focus of the lecture is on site and project development questions in relation to recycling of industrial wasteland. A semester exercise covers a specific major project and serves as the semester grade (project report and presentation).
ObjectiveObjectives of the lecture are:
1) Acquire knowledge of comprehensive and multifunctional large-scale projects and their problem areas
2) Get deepened knowledge in selected fields (site analysis, market analysis, project development, cooperative planning, participation processes)
3) Practical orientation, insight into occupational fields
4) Independent acquirement and acquisition of theoretical knowledge
ContentThe lecture consists of several modules. The main focus is on site and project development questions in relation to recycling of industrial wasteland. Technical presentations, lectured by scientific staff of the division of Planning of Landscape and Urban Systems PLUS as well as well guest referees treat different subjects.

The subjects are:
-Site and market analysis
-Real estate development
-Project development from the perspective of project developers and investors
-Parking and transportation models
-Cooperative planning, participation processes, mediation

The theory is discussed and illustrated at case studies and exercises. Specific large-scale projects that are currently in the development phase will be discussed, for example the area Gaswerkareal Bern, the Sihl-Manegg area in Zurich (GreenCity) or the area Alter Pilatusmarkt (Niedfeld) Luzern. For one specific industrial wasteland area the students will develop a vision for a possible redevelopment and a new land-use concept, which will be discussed with experts.
Lecture notes-Handouts of the lectures
-Extracts from relevant scientific articles and theory literature
-Exercise material

Download: Link
103-0317-00LSustainable Spatial Development I
Only for master students, otherwise a special permisson by the lecturer is required.
O3 credits2GB. Scholl
AbstractThe lectures imparts important knowledge for solving spatial relevant conflicts and problems. Case studies will be used to demonstrate the implementation in practice.
ObjectiveSpatial development deals with the development and the design of our living space. To meet the expectations, the interests and the plans of the different actors, it is needed a planning approach considering the overview of both the actual and future situation.
The concept of sustainable development in spatial planning leads necessarily to an efficient management of the resources, especially regarding the resource land. The basics of this important discipline will be the subject of this lecture, which is therefore organised in three parts:
- Inner development
- Integrated spatial and infrastructure development
- Cross-border issues in spatial development
ContentContents

Tasks of Spatial Planning and development
Issues of local and supra-local interest
Recurring spatial changes, impacts and key figures
Formal and informal instruments and procedures in spatial planning
Spatial Design - Ideas about the future
Reasoning and assessing the situation in spatial planning
Spatial planning as a sequence of decisions and interventions
Process and procedures management
Focus issues - Inner development before external development
Focus issues - Cross-border tasks
Focus Issues - Integrated spatial and infrastructure development
Lecture notesFuther information and the documents for the lecture can be found on the homepage of the Chair of Spatial Development.
103-0417-02LTheory and Methodology of Spatial Planning
Only for master students, otherwise a special permisson by the lecturer is required.
W3 credits2GM. Nollert
AbstractIn order to solve problems in spatial planning it is necessary to explore actions and to judge them; finally, one has to argue why a certain option should be preferred to others. Assessments of the situation are the basis for the problems to treat. Specific knowledge, represented in an adequate manner, is required.
ObjectiveThe participants know the interdependencies between the assessment of a situation, decision making, knowlegde and language. They know the nature of a decision dilemma und maximes, how to deal with it. Especially they learn that the requirement of information for a decision depends upon the preferences of the deciding acteur. They are also familiar with difficulties and pitfalls within these contexts and know what can be done against it.
ContentThe lecture deals with a discussion of theories and methods of/ about spatial planning and their evolution. It imparts deeper skills in dealing with typical methodic challenges of planning in complex systems
Assessment of the situation, deciding, language and knowledge are the main parts.
Lecture notesLearning materials: available online (Moodle) before corresponding lecture.
101-0427-01LPublic Transport Design and Operations
Remark:
Former title until HS16 "System- und Netzplanung ".
W6 credits4GF. Corman, V. De Martinis
AbstractThis course aims at analyzing, designing, improving public transport systems, as part of the overall transport system.
ObjectivePublic transport is a key driver for making our cities more livable, clean and accessible, providing safe, and sustainable travel options for millions of people around the globe. Proper planning of public transport system also ensures that the system is competitive in terms of speed and cost. Public transport is a crucial asset, whose social, economic and environmental benefits extend beyond those who use it regularly; it reduces the amount of cars and road infrastructure in cities; reduces injuries and fatalities associated to car accidents, and gives transport accessibility to very large demographic groups.

Goal of the class is to understand the main characteristics and differences of public transport networks.
Their various performance criteria based on various perspective and stakeholders.
The most relevant decision making problems in a planning tactical and operational point of view
At the end of this course, students can critically analyze existing networks of public transport, their design and use; consider and substantiate possible improvements to existing networks of public transport and the management of those networks; optimize the use of resources in public transport.

General structure:
general introduction of transport, modes, technologies,
system design and line planning for different situations,
mathematical models for design and line planning
timetabling and tactical planning, and related mathematical approaches
operations, and quantitative support to operational problems,
evaluation of public transport systems.
ContentBasics for line transport systems and networks
Passenger/Supply requirements for line operations
Objectives of system and network planning, from different perspectives and users, design dilemmas
Conceptual concepts for passenger transport: long-distance, urban transport, regional, local transport

Planning process, from demand evaluation to line planning to timetables to operations
Matching demand and modes
Line planning techniques
Timetabling principles

Allocation of resources
Management of operations
Measures of realized operations
Improvements of existing services
Lecture notesLecture slides are provided.
LiteratureCeder, Avi: Public Transit Planning and Operation, CRC Press, 2015, ISBN 978-1466563919 (English)

Holzapfel, Helmut: Urbanismus und Verkehr – Bausteine für Architekten, Stadt- und Verkehrsplaner, Vieweg+Teubner, Wiesbaden 2012, ISBN 978-3-8348-1950-5 (Deutsch)

Hull, Angela: Transport Matters – Integrated approaches to planning city-regions, Routledge / Taylor & Francis Group, London / New York 2011, ISBN 978-0-415-48818-4 (English)

Vuchic, Vukan R.: Urban Transit – Operations, Planning, and Economics, John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken / New Jersey 2005, ISBN 0-471-63265-1 (English)

Walker, Jarrett: Human Transit – How clearer thinking about public transit can enrich our communities and our lives, ISLAND PRESS, Washington / Covelo / London 2012, ISBN 978-1-59726-971-1 (English)

White, Peter: Public Transport - Its Planning, Management and Operation, 5th edition, Routledge, London / New York 2009, ISBN 978-0415445306 (English)
101-0417-00LTransport Planning MethodsW6 credits4GK. W. Axhausen
AbstractThe course provides the necessary knowledge to develop models supporting the solution of given planning problems. This is done by dividing the forecasting problem into sub-problems.
The course is composed of a lecture part, providing the theoretical knowledge, and a applied part, in which students develop their own models.
Objective- Knowledge of methods and algorithms commonly used in transport planning
- Ability to independently develop a transport model able to solve / answer the given problem / questions
- Understanding of algorithms and their implementations commonly used in transport planning
ContentThe course provides the necessary knowledge to develop models supporting the solution of given planning problems. 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 the forecasting problem it is first divided into sub-problems. Then, these are solved using various algorithms like iterative proportional fitting, shortest path algorithms and the method of successive averages.

The course is composed of a lecture part, providing the theoretical knowledge, and a applied part, in which students create their own models. This part takes place in form of a tutorial and consists in the development of a computer program. The programming part is closely guided and particularly suitable for students with little programming experience.
Lecture notesThe slides of the lecture are provided electronically.
LiteratureWillumsen, P. and J. de D. Ortuzar (2003) Modelling Transport, Wiley, Chichester.

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.
103-0347-01LLandscape Planning and Environmental Systems (GIS Exercises) Restricted registration - show details W3 credits2UA. Grêt-Regamey, V. Cohen, A. Stritih
AbstractThe course content of the lecture Landscape Planning and Environmental Systems (103-0347-00 V) will be illustrated.
ObjectiveTo show the importance of ecosystem services.
Analysis and assessment of the complex interactions between landscape elements.
To identify and measure the characteristics of landscape.
Learn how to use the instrument of GIS appropriately in landscape planning.
Content- Environmental systems, IUCN Red List, ecological connectivity
- Calculating urban landscape services
- Practice of landscape planning
- Use of GIS in landscape planning
- Modelling
- Landscape analysis
- Landscape metrics
Lecture notesNo script. The documentation, consisting of presentation slides are partly handed out and are provided for download on the PLUS website.
LiteratureWill be named in the lecture.
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic GIS skills are recommended. A brief introduction to GIS will be given in the first exercise.
103-0569-00LEuropean Aspects of Spatial DevelopmentW3 credits2GA. Peric Momcilovic
AbstractFollowing 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.
ObjectiveKeeping 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: CODE 24 (Rotterdam-Genoa), Orient/east-Med corridor (Hamburg-Athens), Danube region
Lecture notesThe documents for the lecture will be provided at the moodle, Link.
LiteratureObligatory 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 / NoticeOnly for master students, otherwise a special permission by the lecturer is required.
Electives
The entire course programs of ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich are open to the students to individual selection.
Recommended Electives of Master Degree Programme
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
101-0439-00LIntroduction to Economic Analysis - A Case Study Approach with Cost Benefit Analysis in Transport
Remark:
Former Title "Introduction to Economic Policy - A Case Study Approach with Cost Benefit Analysis in Transport".
W6 credits4GK. W. Axhausen, R. Schubert
AbstractThe course presents basic economic principles as well as cost benefit analyses in transport; it also introduces methods used to derive the monetary values of non-market goods.
ObjectiveFamiliarity with basic microeconomic and macroeconomic principles and with the essential methods of project appraisal
ContentBasic microeconomic and macroeconomic üpronciples; Cost-Benefit-Analyses; multi-criteria analyses; European guidelines; stated response methods; travel cost approach and others; Valuation of travel time savings; valuation of traffic safety
Lecture notesmoodle platform for the basic economic principles; handouts
LiteratureTaylor, M.P., Mankiw, N.G. (2014): Economics; Harvard Press

VSS (2006) SN 640 820: Kosten-Nutzen-Analysen im Strassenverkehr, VSS, Zürich.

Boardman, A.E., D.H. Greenberg, A.R. Vining und D.L. Weimer (2001) Cost – Benefit – Analysis: Concepts and Practise, Prentice-Hall, Upper Saddle River.

ecoplan and metron (2005) Kosten-Nutzen-Analysen im Strassenverkehr: Kommentar zu SN 640 820, UVEK, Bern.
363-1065-00LDesign Thinking: Human-Centred Solutions to Real World Challenges Restricted registration - show details
Due to didactic reasons, the number of participants is limited to 30.

All interested students are invited to apply for this course by sending a by sending a short motivation letter until the 18 of September 2017 to Florian Rittiner (Link).

Additionally please enroll via mystudies. Please note that all students are put on the waiting list and that your current position on the waiting list is irrelevant, as places will be assigned after the first lecture on the basis of your motivation letter and commitment for the class.
W5 credits5GA. Cabello Llamas, F. Rittiner, S. Brusoni, C. Hölscher, M. Meboldt
AbstractThe goal of this course is to engage students in a multidisciplinary collaboration to tackle real world problems. Following a design thinking approach, students will work in teams to solve a set of design challenges that are organized as a one-week, a three-week, and a final six-week project in collaboration with an external project partner.

Information and application: Link
ObjectiveDuring the course, students will learn about different design thinking methods and tools. This will enable them to:
- Generate deep insights through the systematic observation and interaction of key stakeholders (empathy).
- Engage in collaborative ideation with a multidisciplinary team.
- Rapidly prototype and iteratively test ideas and concepts by using various materials and techniques.
ContentThe purpose of this course is to equip the students with methods and tools to tackle a broad range of problems. Following a Design Thinking approach, the students will learn how to observe and interact with key stakeholders in order to develop an in-depth understanding of what is truly important and emotionally meaningful to the people at the center of a problem. Based on these insights, the students ideate on possible solutions and immediately validated them through quick iterations of prototyping and testing using different tools and materials. The students will work in multidisciplinary teams on a set of challenges that are organized as a one-week, a three-week, and a final six-week project with an external project partner. In this course, the students will learn about the different Design Thinking methods and tools that are needed to generate deep insights, to engage in collaborative ideation, rapid prototyping and iterative testing.

Design Thinking is a deeply human process that taps into the creative abilities we all have, but that get often overlooked by more conventional problem solving practices. It relies on our ability to be intuitive, to recognize patterns, to construct ideas that are emotionally meaningful as well as functional, and to express ourselves through means beyond words or symbols. Design Thinking provides an integrated way by incorporating tools, processes and techniques from design, engineering, the humanities and social sciences to identify, define and address diverse challenges. This integration leads to a highly productive collaboration between different disciplines.

For more information and the application visit: Link
Prerequisites / NoticeOpen mind, ability to manage uncertainty and to work with students from various background. Class attendance and active participation is crucial as much of the learning occurs through the work in teams during class. Therefore, attendance is obligatory for every session. Please also note that the group work outside class is an essential element of this course, so that students must expect an above-average workload.

Please note that the class is designed for full-time MSc students. Interested MAS students need to send an email to Florian Rittiner (Link) to learn about the requirements of the class.
101-0449-00LManagement, Marketing, Quality
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits4GU. A. Weidmann
AbstractTransport and administrative policy, international and national regulation, business management of public transport companies, marketing, advertising and pricing; quality management
ObjectiveComprehension of the transport and administrative policy as well as of the regulation of public transport companies. To develop a full understanding of the three important public transport system operations management processes: (1) Business management; (2) Marketing; (3) Quality control. The course will teach essential working techniques in each of these processes.
Content(1) Transport and administrative policy: Goals of the state related to public transports, governmental activities in public transport, regulation. (2) Business management in public transport enterprises: goals of public transport companies, goals of the business management; management of public transport on the different management levels, business organization. (3) Marketing, advertising and pricing: Fundamentals and goals; marketing strategies and concepts in public transports; marketing tools; putting marketing into action. (4) Quality control: Quality in transport systems; goals of quality management; structuring quality control measures; collecting quality data in an operating service; use of quality control systems for service optimization.
Lecture notesCourse notes will be provided in German. Slides will be made available.
LiteratureReferences to technical literature will be included in the course script. An additional list of literature will be given during the course.
Prerequisites / NoticeLectures System and Network Planning as well as Systems Dimensioning and Capacity recommended.
Electives ETH Zurich
» Course Catalogue of ETH Zurich
Seminar Work
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0817-00LGeomatics Seminar Restricted registration - show details O4 credits2SM. Rothacher, K. W. Axhausen, A. Geiger, A. Grêt-Regamey, L. Hurni, M. Raubal, B. Scholl, U. A. Weidmann, A. Wieser
AbstractIntroduction to general scientific working methods and skills in the core fields of geomatics. It includes a literature study, a review of one of the articles, a presentation and a report about the literature study.
ObjectiveLearn how to search for literature, how to write a scientific report, how to present scientific results, and how to critically read and review a scientific article
ContentA list of themes for the literature study are made availabel at the beginning of the semester. A theme can be selected based on a moodle.
Prerequisites / NoticeAgreement with one of the responsible Professors is necessary
Interdisciplinary Project Work
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0298-02LInterdisciplinary Project Restricted registration - show details O12 credits24AProfessors
AbstractWorking on a concrete interdisciplinary task in Geomatics
ObjectivePromote independent, structured and scientific work in an interdisciplinary context; learn to apply engineering methods; deepen the knowledge in the field of the treated task.
ContentThe project work is supervised by a professor. Students can choose from different subjects and tasks.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe project can be carried out in German upon mutual agreement between supervisor and student.
GESS Science in Perspective
» see GESS Science in Perspective: Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Capability
» see GESS Science in Perspective: Language Courses ETH/UZH
» Recommended GESS Science in Perspective (Type B) for D-BAUG.
Master's Thesis
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0009-00LMaster's Thesis Restricted registration - show details
Before starting the Master's thesis, students must have
a. obtained the Bachelor's degree;
b. fulfilled all specified admission conditions, if any;
c. acquired at least 90 credits in the Master's programme, including 12 credits in the area of the interdisciplinary project.
O24 credits47DSupervisors
AbstractThe Master Programme concludes with the Master Thesis, which has to be done in one of the chosen Majors and has to be completed within 16 weeks. The Master Thesis is supervised by a professor and shall attest the students ability to work independently and to produce scientifically structured work.
ObjectiveTo work independently and to produce a scientifically structured work.
ContentThe topics of the Mastrer Thesis are published by the professors. The Topic can be set also in consultation between the student and the professor.
Course Units for Additional Admission Requirements
The courses below are only available for MSc students with additional admission requirements.
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
103-0115-AALGeodetic Metrology II
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RA. Wieser
AbstractAdvanced topics in geodetic metrology with focus on instrumental and methodic aspects for applications with higher accuracy demands.
ObjectiveThe students acquire enhanced knowledge regarding the operating mode, the application and the limitations of modern geodetic standard instruments. They will be able to properly select, test and apply these instruments for geodetic tasks with higher accuracy requirements. They will get acquainted with the typical workflow from the preparation of the field works to the digital or plotted plan. Finally, the students will be introduced to specific geodetic tasks related to construction and civil engineering.
Content- The geomatics workflow
- Propagation of light in the atmosphere
- The modern total station
- Terrestrial Laserscanning
- Digital levels
- Field tests
- Traverses
- Trigonometric leveling
- Precision leveling
- Route planing and transition curves
Lecture notesSlides and documents for enhanced study and further reading will be provided online.
LiteratureUren J, Price B (2010) Surveying for Engineers. 5th ed., Palgrave Macmillan.
103-0126-AALGeodetic Reference Systems
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-3 credits3RM. Meindl
AbstractFundamentals and theory of geodetic reference systems and frames. Introduction to current international systems as well as to systems for the Swiss national geodetic survey.
ObjectiveProvision of fundamental knowledge and theory to get familiar with the applications of geodetic reference systems. Special emphasis will be placed on international global systems as well as on the systems of the Swiss national geodetic survey.
103-0132-AALGeodetic Metrology Fundamentals
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-6 credits4RA. Wieser
AbstractIntroduction to the most important sensors, operation and calculation methods of Geodetic Metrology
ObjectiveGetting to know the most important sensors, operation and calculation methods of Geodetic Metrology
ContentOverview on the different domains of geodetic metrology
Geodetic instruments and sensors
Determination of 3D-coordinates with GNSS, total sttaion and levelling
Calculation methods of geodetic metrology
Survey and staking-out methods
Lecture notesSlides and additional material used in the associated regular course Geodätische Messtechnik GZ (in German) are provided in electronic form.
LiteratureUren J, Price B (2010) Surveying for Engineers. 5th ed., Palgrave Macmillan.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe field course is part of this lecture. Practical exercises complete the subjects taught during the semester.

If evidence of equivalent practical experience in surveying cannot be provided by the student, participation in the field course during the respective next available period (i.e. 1 week in the beginning of the summer holidays) is required.
101-0414-AALTransport Planning (Transportation I)
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-3 credits2RK. W. Axhausen
AbstractThe lecture course discusses the basic concepts, approaches and methods of transport planning in both their theoretical and practical contexts.
ObjectiveThe course introduces the basic theories and methods of transport planning.
ContentBasic theoretical links between transport, space and economic development; basic terminology; measurement and observation of travel behaviour; methods of the four stage approach; cost-benefit analysis.
LiteratureOrtuzar, J. de D. and L. Willumsen (2011) Modelling Transport, Wiley, Chichester.
103-0153-AALCartography II
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RL. Hurni
AbstractBasic knowhow about communication with spatial information by using plans and maps, about the most important design rules and production methods for map graphics.
ObjectiveAcquire basic knowhow about communication with spatial information by using plans and maps, about the most important design rules and production methods for map graphics. Ability to assess existing products with respect to their content-related and design quality. Ability to design proper plans and well designed legends for basic maps.
ContentDefinitions "map" and "cartography", map types, current tasks and situation of cartography, map history, spatial refernce systems, map projections, map conception and workflow planning, map design, analog and digital map production technology, prepress technology, printing technology, topographic maps, map critics.
Lecture notesWill be distributed module by module
LiteratureReferences and other materials will be distributed by the supervisors.
Prerequisites / Noticenone.
103-0184-AALHigher Geodesy
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RM. Rothacher
AbstractModern methods of Higher Geodesy. Basics of Shape of the Earth: Geoid determination and deflection of the vertical. Introduction into the most important topics: Satellite Geodesy and Navigation; Physical Geodesy and gravity field of the Earth; Astronomical Geodesy and Positioning; Mathematical Geodesy and basics of Geodynamics. Reference systems and applications in National and Global Geomatics.
ObjectiveOverview over the entire spectrum of Higher Geodesy
103-0214-AALCartography I Information
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RL. Hurni
AbstractIntroduction and basics in mathematics of geometric geo-objects in the three-dimensional space (with exercises).
ObjectiveBasics, structures and processes in modern geovisualisation and computer graphics.
Exercises in 2D and 3D computer graphics with software from desktop publishing, GIS, and computer visualisation.
Lecture notesReferences and other materials will be distributed by the supervisors.
103-0233-AALGIS I
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-3 credits2RM. Raubal
AbstractFundamentals in geoinformation technologies: database principles, including modeling of spatial information, geometric and semantic models, topology and metrics; practical training with GIS software.
ObjectiveKnow the fundamentals in geoinformation technologies for the realization, application and operation of geographic information systems in engineering projects.
ContentModelling of spatial information
Geometric and semantic models
Topology & metrics
Raster and vector models
Databases
Applications
Labs with GIS software
LiteratureWorboys, M., & Duckham, M. (2004). GIS - A Computing Perspective (2nd ed.). Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press.
O'Sullivan, D., & Unwin, D. (2010). Geographic Information Analysis (second ed.). Hoboken, New Jersey: Wiley.
103-0234-AALGIS II
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RM. Raubal
AbstractAdvanced course in geoinformation technologies: conceptual and logical modelling of networks, 3D- and 4D-data and spatial processes in GIS; raster data structures and operations; mobile GIS; Internet and GIS; interoperability and data transfer; legal and technical foundations of spatial data infrastructures (SDI)
ObjectiveStudents will be able to carry out the following phases of a GIS project: data modelling, mobile data acquisition and analysis, Web publication of data and integration of interoperable geospatial web services into a Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI).

Students will deepen their knowledge of conceptual and logical modeling by means of the particular requirements of networks as well as 3D- and 4D-data.
LiteratureWorboys, M., & Duckham, M. (2004). GIS - A Computing Perspective (2nd Edition). Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press.
103-0253-AALGeoprocessing and Parameter Estimation
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RA. Geiger
AbstractThis course provides basic knowledge on parameter estimation and data processing. The necessary mathematical and statistical methods are developed and are applied to actual examples in geomatics.
ObjectiveThe students are capable of analysing measurements with with appropriate methods. They can optimally extract model parameters from real measurements and are able to analyse and to retrieve additional information from time series. They understand the underlying algorithms of different geodetic analysis tools and processing methods.
103-0254-AALPhotogrammetry
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RK. Schindler
AbstractThe class conveys the basics of photogrammetry. Its aim is to equip students with an understanding of the principles, methods and applications of image-based measurement.
ObjectiveThe aim is an understanding of the principles, methods and possible applications of photogrammetry. The course also forms the basis for more in-depth studies and self-reliant photogrammetric project work in further photogrammetry courses.
ContentThe basics of photogrammetry, its products and applications: the principle of image-based measurement; digital aerial cameras and related sensors; projective geometry; mathematical modeling, calibration and orientation of cameras; photogrammetric reconstruction of points and lines, and stereoscopy; orthophoto generation; digital photogrammetric workstations; recording geometry and flight planning
Lecture notesPhotogrammetry (slides on the web)
Literature- Kraus, K.: Photogrammetrie, Band 1: Geometrische Informationen aus Photographien und Laserscanneraufnahmen, mit Beiträgen von Peter Waldhäusl, Walter de Gruyter Verlag, Berlin, 7th edition
- Kraus, K.: Photogrammetrie, Band 2: Verfeinerte Methoden und Anwendungen, mit Beiträgen von J. Jansa und H. Kager, Walter de Gruyter Verlag, Berlin, 3rd edition
- Thomas Luhmann: Nahbereichsphotogrammetrie. Grundlagen, Methoden und Anwendungen, H. Wichmann Verlag, Karlsruhe, 2nd edition 2003
- Richard Hartley and Andrew Zisserman: Multiple View Geometry, Cambridge University Press; 2nd edition 2004
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: knowledge of physics, linear algebra and analytical geometry, calculus, least-squares adjustment and statistics, basic programming skills.
103-0255-AALGeodata Analysis
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-2 credits4RM. Raubal
AbstractThe course deals with advanced methods in spatial data analysis.
Objective- Understanding the theoretical principles in spatial data analysis.
- Understanding and using methods for spatial data analysis.
- Detecting common sources of errors in spatial data analysis.
- Advanced practical knowledge in using appropriate GIS-tools.
ContentThe course deals with advanced methods in spatial data analysis in theory as well as in practical exercises.
LiteratureMITCHELL, A., 2012, The Esri Guide to GIS Analysis - Modeling Suitability, Movement, and Interaction (3. Auflage), ESRI Press, Redlands, California
103-0274-AALImage Processing
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-3 credits2RJ. D. Wegner
AbstractThe objective of this lecture is to introduce the basic concepts of image formation and explain the basic methods of signal and image processing.
ObjectiveUnderstanding core methods and algorithms in image processing and computer vision and the underlying signal processing foundations.
Applying image processing algorithms to relevant problems in photogrammetry and remote sensing.
Content- Image segmentation
The following topics will be covered in the course:
- Properties of digital images
- Signal processing/Sampling
- Image enhancement
- Image restoration: Spatial domain
- Image restoration: Fourier domain
- Color/Demosaicing
- Image compression
- Feature extraction
- Texture analysis
Lecture notesA script will be provided as PDF files on the lecture website.
LiteratureWe suggest the following textbooks for further reading:

Rafael C. Gonzalez, Richard E. Woods
Digital Image Processing
Prentice Hall International, 2008
ISBN: 013168728X

Rafael C. Gonzalez, Steven L. Eddins, Richard E. Woods:
Digital Image Processing Using MATLAB
Prentice Hall, 2003
ISBN: 0130085197
Prerequisites / NoticeThe course is accompanied by programming assignments, that need to be completed in order to pass the semester performance.
103-0313-AALPlanning I
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RG. Nussbaumer
AbstractThe lecture introduces into the main-features of spatial planning. Attended will be the subjects of planning as a national responsibility, instruments of spatial planning, techniques for problem solving in spatial planning and the Swiss concept for regional planning.
Objective- To get to know the interaction between the community and our living space and their resulting conflicts.
- Link theory and practice in spatial planning.
- To get to know instruments and facilities to process problems in spatial planning.
103-0325-AALPlanning II
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RB. Scholl
AbstractThe lecture imparts methodological and instrumental fundamentals for spatial planning and will be exemplified by exploring two Zurich city quarters.
ObjectiveSpatial planning is concerned with the foresighted design of the built and un-built environment. Starting points are spatially relevant problems that need to be explored, clarified and solved. The cornerstone of the course is formed by an independent exploration by the student of two Zurich city quarters that involves investigating specific spatially relevant conditions, recognizing regularities and relevant problems.
ContentThe self-study course compromises the following readings:
Chapters of:
- Lynch, Kevin: «The Image of the City»,
- Alexander, Christopher et al.: «A Pattern Language»,
- Mikoleit, Anne and Pürckhauer, Moritz: «Urban Code», and
- «SIDAIA - Spatial and Infrastructure Development: An Integrated Approach».

The graded semester performance comprises a condensed paper to be written by the student reflecting both the literature read as well as exemplarily applying the knowledge gained from the literature by independently exploring the two city quarters.
Lecture notescf. content
Literaturecf. content
103-0435-AALLandmanagement
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits4RG. Nussbaumer
AbstractThe lecture deals with spatial planning on the commune level with focus on the special land use management. Some of the topics are land re-allocation as an instrument of spatial planning, specific explanations for land re-allocations in rural regions and in construction zones and land marketing from the viewpoint of investors.
ObjectiveAcquire knowledge in spatial planning and land re-allocation as an interactive process.
252-0846-AALComputer Science II Information
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-4 credits9RF. Friedrich Wicker
AbstractIntroduction to programming in Java. Procedural foundations of programming and outlook to object oriented programming. Variables, types, assignments, control structures (branch, loop), data structures, algorithms, line graphics, graphical user interface. Writing small programs. Working with a professional programming environment (Eclipse).
ObjectiveThe students will be able to write simple programs and to modify existing programs.
ContentThis course offers an introduction to variables, control structures (branch, loop), algorithms and data structures, as well as an outlook to modularisation and object oriented techniques.
In the exercises students train programming skills (in the programming language JAVA). Students can solve the exercises on their own laptop or in the computer labs at ETH. The software used in this course runs on MS Windows, MacOS X and Linux.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites:
252-0845-00 Computer Science I (D-BAUG)
406-0023-AALPhysics Information
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-7 credits15RS. Johnson
AbstractBasic topics in classical as well as modern physics, interplay between basic research and applications.
Objective
ContentElectrodynamics, Thermodynamics, Quantum physics, Waves and Oscillations, special relativity
LiteratureP.A. Tipler and G. Mosca, Physics for scientists and engineers, W.H. Freeman and Company, New York

Hans J. Paus, Physik in Experimenten und Beispielen, Carl Hanser Verlag München Wien (als unterrichtsbegleitendes und ergänzendes Lehrbuch)
406-0141-AALLinear Algebra
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-5 credits11RM. Auer
AbstractIntroduction to Linear Algebra and Numerical Analysis for Engineers. This reading course is based on chapters from the book "Introduction to Linear Algebra" by Gilbert Strang (SIAM 2009), and "A first Course in Numerical Methods" by U. Ascher and C. Greif (SIAM, 2011).
ObjectiveTo acquire basic knowledge of Linear Algebra and some aspects of related numerical metjhods and the ability to apply basic algorithms to simple problems.
Content1 Introduction, calculations using MATLAB
2 Linear systems I
3 Linear systems II
4 Scalar- & vektorproduct
5 Basics of matrix algebra
6 Linear maps
7 Orthogonal maps
8 Trace & determinant
9 General vectorspaces
10 Metric & scalarproducts
11 Basis, basistransform & similar matrices
12 Eigenvalues & eigenvectors
13 Spectral theorem & diagonalisation
14 Repetition
LiteratureGilbert Strang, Introduction to Linear Algebra, 4th ed., SIAM & Wellesley-Cambridge Press, 2009.

U. Ascher and C. Greif, A first Course in Numerical Methods", SIAM, 2011.
Prerequisites / NoticeKnowledge of elementary calculus
406-0242-AALAnalysis II Information
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-7 credits15RM. Akka Ginosar
AbstractMathematical tools of an engineer
ObjectiveMathematics as a tool to solve engineering problems, mathematical formulation of problems in science and engineering. Basic mathematical knowledge of an engineers.
ContentMulti variable calculus: gradient, directional derivative, chain rule, Taylor expansion, Lagrange multipliers. Multiple integrals: coordinate transformations, path integrals, integrals over surfaces, divergence theorem, applications in physics. Ordinary differential equations.
LiteratureTextbooks in English:
- J. Stewart: Multivariable Calculus, Thomson Brooks/Cole
- V. I. Smirnov: A course of higher mathematics. Vol. II. Advanced calculus
- W. L. Briggs, L. Cochran: Calculus: Early Transcendentals: International Edition, Pearson Education

- M. Akveld, R. Sperb, Analysis II, vdf
- L. Papula: Mathematik für Ingenieure 2, Vieweg Verlag
406-0243-AALAnalysis I and II Information
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-14 credits30RM. Akka Ginosar
AbstractMathematical tools for the engineer
ObjectiveMathematics as a tool to solve engineering problems. Mathematical formulation of technical and scientific problems. Basic mathematical knowledge for engineers.
ContentComplex numbers.
Calculus for functions of one variable with applications.
Simple Mathematical models in engineering.

Multi variable calculus: gradient, directional derivative, chain rule, Taylor expansion, Lagrange multipliers. Multiple integrals: coordinate transformations, path integrals, integrals over surfaces, divergence theorem, applications in physics. Ordinary differential equations.
LiteratureTextbooks in English:
- J. Stewart: Calculus, Cengage Learning, 2009, ISBN 978-0-538-73365-6.
- J. Stewart: Multivariable Calculus, Thomson Brooks/Cole.
- V. I. Smirnov: A course of higher mathematics. Vol. II. Advanced calculus.
- W. L. Briggs, L. Cochran: Calculus: Early Transcendentals: International Edition, Pearson Education. ISBN 978-0-321-65193-8.
Textbooks in German:
- M. Akveld, R. Sperb: Analysis I, vdf
- M. Akveld, R. Sperb: Analysis II, vdf
- L. Papula: Mathematik für Ingenieure und Naturwissenschaftler, Vieweg Verlag
- L. Papula: Mathematik für Ingenieure 2, Vieweg Verlag
406-0603-AALStochastics (Probability and Statistics)
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-4 credits9RM. Kalisch
AbstractIntroduction to basic methods and fundamental concepts of statistics and probability theory for non-mathematicians. The concepts are presented on the basis of some descriptive examples. Learning the statistical program R for applying the acquired concepts will be a central theme.
ObjectiveThe objective of this course is to build a solid fundament in probability and statistics. The student should understand some fundamental concepts and be able to apply these concepts to applications in the real world. Furthermore, the student should have a basic knowledge of the statistical programming language "R".
ContentFrom "Statistics for research" (online)
Ch 1: The Role of Statistics
Ch 2: Populations, Samples, and Probability Distributions
Ch 3: Binomial Distributions
Ch 6: Sampling Distribution of Averages
Ch 7: Normal Distributions
Ch 8: Student's t Distribution
Ch 9: Distributions of Two Variables

From "Introductory Statistics with R (online)"
Ch 1: Basics
Ch 2: The R Environment
Ch 3: Probability and distributions
Ch 4: Descriptive statistics and tables
Ch 5: One- and two-sample tests
Ch 6: Regression and correlation
Literature- "Statistics for research" by S. Dowdy et. al. (3rd
edition); Print ISBN: 9780471267355; Online ISBN: 9780471477433; DOI:
10.1002/0471477435
From within the ETH, this book is freely available online under:
Link

- "Introductory Statistics with R" by Peter Dalgaard; ISBN
978-0-387-79053-4; DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-79054-1
From within the ETH, this book is freely available online under:
Link