Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2018
Mechanical Engineering Master  | ||||||
 Core Courses | ||||||
| Energy, Flows and Processes The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor. | ||||||
| Number | Title | Type | ECTS | Hours | Lecturers | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 151-0106-00L | Orbital Dynamics | W | 4 credits | 3G | A. A. Kubik | |
| Abstract | Principles of the motion of natural and artificial satellites, rocket dynamics, orbital maneuvers and interplanetary missions. | |||||
| Objective | Knowledge of the basic theory of satellite dynamics. Ability to apply the acquired theory to simple examples. | |||||
| Content | The two-body problem, rocket dynamics, orbital maneuvers, interplanetary missions, the restricted three-body problem, perturbation equations, satellite attitude dynamics. | |||||
| 151-0110-00L | Compressible Flows | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | J.‑P. Kunsch | |
| Abstract | Topics: unsteady one-dimensional subsonic and supersonic flows, acoustics, sound propagation, supersonic flows with shocks and Prandtl-Meyer expansions, flow around slender bodies, shock tubes, reaction fronts (deflagration and detonation). Mathematical tools: method of characteristics and selected numerical methods. | |||||
| Objective | Illustration of compressible flow phenomena and introduction to the corresponding mathematical description methods. | |||||
| Content | The interaction of compressibility and inertia is responsible for wave generation in a fluid. The compressibility plays an important role for example in unsteady phenomena, such as oscillations in gas pipelines or exhaust pipes. Compressibility effects are also important in steady subsonic flows with high Mach numbers (M>0.3) and in supersonic flows (e.g. aeronautics, turbomachinery). The first part of the lecture deals with wave propagation phenomena in one-dimensional subsonic and supersonic flows. The discussion includes waves with small amplitudes in an acoustic approximation and waves with large amplitudes with possible shock formation. The second part deals with plane, steady supersonic flows. Slender bodies in a parallel flow are considered as small perturbations of the flow and can be treated by means of acoustic methods. The description of the two-dimensional supersonic flow around bodies with arbitrary shapes includes oblique shocks and Prandtl-Meyer expansions etc.. Various boundary conditions, which are imposed for example by walls or free-jet boundaries, and interactions, reflections etc. are taken into account. | |||||
| Lecture notes | not available | |||||
| Literature | a list of recommended textbooks is handed out at the beginning of the lecture. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | prerequisites: Fluiddynamics I and II | |||||
| 151-0116-10L | High Performance Computing for Science and Engineering (HPCSE) for Engineers II | W | 4 credits | 4G | P. Koumoutsakos, P. Chatzidoukas | |
| Abstract | This course focuses on programming methods and tools for parallel computing on multi and many-core architectures. Emphasis will be placed on practical and computational aspects of Uncertainty Quantification and Propagation including the implementation of relevant algorithms on HPC architectures. | |||||
| Objective | The course will teach - programming models and tools for multi and many-core architectures - fundamental concepts of Uncertainty Quantification and Propagation (UQ+P) for computational models of systems in Engineering and Life Sciences | |||||
| Content | High Performance Computing: - Advanced topics in shared-memory programming - Advanced topics in MPI - GPU architectures and CUDA programming Uncertainty Quantification: - Uncertainty quantification under parametric and non-parametric modeling uncertainty - Bayesian inference with model class assessment - Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation | |||||
| Lecture notes | http://www.cse-lab.ethz.ch/index.php/teaching/42-teaching/classes/704-hpcse2 Class notes, handouts | |||||
| Literature | - Class notes - Introduction to High Performance Computing for Scientists and Engineers, G. Hager and G. Wellein - CUDA by example, J. Sanders and E. Kandrot - Data Analysis: A Bayesian Tutorial, Devinderjit Sivia | |||||
| 151-0156-00L | Safety of Nuclear Power Plants | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | H.‑M. Prasser, V. Dang, L. Podofillini | |
| Abstract | Knowledge about safety concepts and requirements of nuclear power plants and their implementation in deterministic safety concepts and safety systems. Knowledge about behavior under accident conditions and about the methods of probabilistic risk analysis and how to handle results. Introduction into key elements of the enhanced safety of nuclear systems for the future. | |||||
| Objective | Deep understanding of safety requirements, concepts and system of nuclear power plants, knowledge of deterministic and probabilistic methods for safety analysis, aspects of nuclear safety research, licensing of nuclear power plant operation. Overview on key elements of the enhanced safety of nuclear systems for the future. | |||||
| Content | (1) Introduction into the specific safety issues of nuclear power plants, main facts of health effects of ionizing radiation, defense in depth approach. (2) Reactor protection and reactivity control, reactivity induced accidents (RIA). (3) Loss-of-coolant accidents (LOCA), emergency core cooling systems. (4) Short introduction into severe accidents (Beyond Design Base Accidents, BDBA). (5) Probabilistic risk analysis (PRA level 1,2,3). (6) Passive safety systems. (7) Safety of innovative reactor concepts. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Script: Hand-outs of lecture slides will be distributed Audio recording of lectures will be provided Script "Short introduction into basics of nuclear power" | |||||
| Literature | S. Glasston & A. Sesonke: Nuclear Reactor Engineering, Reactor System Engineering, Ed. 4, Vol. 2., Chapman & Hall, NY, 1994 | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Prerequisites: Recommended in advance (not binding): 151-0163-00L Nuclear Energy Conversion | |||||
| 151-0160-00L | Nuclear Energy Systems | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | H.‑M. Prasser, I. Günther-Leopold, W. Hummel, P. K. Zuidema | |
| Abstract | Nuclear energy and sustainability, uranium production, uranium enrichment, nuclear fuel production, reprocessing of spent fuel, nuclear waste disposal, Life Cycle Analysis, energy and materials balance of Nuclear Power Plants. | |||||
| Objective | Students get an overview on the physical and chemical fundamentals, the technological processes and the environmental impact of the full energy conversion chain of nuclear power generation. The are enabled to assess to potentials and risks arising from embedding nuclear power in a complex energy system. | |||||
| Content | (1) survey on the cosmic and geological origin of uranium, methods of uranium mining, separation of uranium from the ore, (2) enrichment of uranium (diffusion cells, ultra-centrifuges, alternative methods), chemical conversion uranium oxid - fluorid - oxid, fuel rod fabrication processes, (3) fuel reprocessing (hydrochemical, pyrochemical) including modern developments of deep partitioning as well as methods to treat and minimize the amount and radiotoxicity of nuclear waste. (4) nuclear waste disposal, waste categories and origin, geological and engineered barriers in deep geological repositories, the project of a deep geological disposal for radioactive waste in Switzerland, (5) methods to measure the sustainability of energy systems, comparison of nuclear energy with other energy sources, environmental impact of the nuclear energy system as a whole, including the question of CO2 emissions, CO2 reduction costs, radioactive releases from the power plant, the fuel chain and the final disposal. The material balance of different fuel cycles with thermal and fast reactors isdiscussed. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Lecture slides will be distributed as handouts and in digital form | |||||
| 151-0166-00L | Special Topics in Reactor Physics | W | 4 credits | 3G | S. Pelloni, K. Mikityuk, A. Pautz | |
| Abstract | Reactor physics calculations for assessing the performance and safety of nuclear power plants are, in practice, carried out using large computer codes simulating different key phenomena. This course provides a basis for understanding state-of-the-art calculational methodologies in the above context. | |||||
| Objective | Students are introduced to advanced methods of reactor physics analysis for nuclear power plants. | |||||
| Content | Cross-sections preparation. Slowing down theory. Differential form of the neutron transport equation and method of discrete ordinates (Sn). Integral form of the neutron transport equation and method of characteristics. Method of Monte-Carlo. Modeling of fuel depletion. Lattice calculations and cross-section parametrization. Modeling of full core neutronics using nodal methods. Modeling of feedbacks from fuel behavior and thermal hydraulics. Point and spatial reactor kinetics. Uncertainty and sensitivity analysis. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Hand-outs will be provided on the website. | |||||
| Literature | Chapters from various text books on Reactor Theory, etc. | |||||
| 151-0204-00L | Aerospace Propulsion | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | R. S. Abhari, N. Chokani | |
| Abstract | In this course, an introduction of working principals of aero-engines and the related background in aero- and thermodynamics is presented. System as well as component engineering aspects of engine design are examined. | |||||
| Objective | Introduction of working principals of aero-engines and the related background in aero- and thermodynamics. Engineering aspects of engine design. | |||||
| Content | This course focuses on the fundamental concepts as well as the applied technologies for aerospace application, with a primary focus related to aviation. The systematic evolution of the aircraft propulsion engines, from turbojet to the modern high bypass ratio turbofan, including the operational limitations, are examined. Following the system analysis, the aerodynamic design of each component, including the inlet, fan, compressor, combustors, turbines and exhaust nozzles are presented. The mechanical and material limitations of the modern designed are also discussed. The environmental aspects of propulsion (noise and emissions) are also presented. In the last part of the course, a basic introduction to the fundamentals of space propulsion is also presented. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Vorlesungsunterlagen werden verteilt | |||||
| 151-0211-00L | Convective Heat Transport Does not take place this semester. | W | 5 credits | 4G | H. G. Park | |
| Abstract | This course will teach the field of heat transfer by convection. This heat transport process is intimately tied to fluid dynamics and mathematics, meaning that solid background in these disciplines are necessary. Convection has direct implications in various industries, e.g. microfabrication, microfluidics, microelectronics cooling, thermal shields protection for space shuttles. | |||||
| Objective | Advanced introduction to the field of heat transfer by convection. | |||||
| Content | The course covers the following topics: 1. Introduction: Fundamentals and Conservation Equations 2. Laminar Fully Developed Velocity and Temperature Fields 3. Laminar Thermally Developing Flows 4. Laminar Hydrodynamic Boundary Layers 5. Laminar Thermal Boundary Layers 6. Laminar Thermal Boundary Layers with Viscous Dissipation 7. Turbulent Flows 8. Natural Convection. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Lecture notes will be delivered in class via note-taking. Textbook serves as a great source of the lecture notes. | |||||
| Literature | Text: (Main) Kays and Crawford, Convective Heat and Mass Transfer, McGraw-Hill, Inc. (Secondary) A. Bejan, Convection Heat Transfer References: Incropera and De Witt, Fundamentals of Heat and Mass Transfer, or Introduction to Heat Transfer Kundu and Cohen, Fluid Mechanics, Academic Press V. Arpaci, Convection Heat Transfer | |||||
| 151-0212-00L | Advanced CFD Methods | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | P. Jenny | |
| Abstract | Fundamental and advanced numerical methods used in commercial and open-source CFD codes will be explained. The main focus is on numerical methods for conservation laws with discontinuities, which is relevant for trans- and hypersonic gas dynamics problems, but also CFD of incompressible flows, Direct Simulation Monte Carlo and the Lattice Boltzmann method are explained. | |||||
| Objective | Knowing what's behind a state-of-the-art CFD code is not only important for developers, but also for users in order to choose the right methods and to achieve meaningful and accurate numerical results. Acquiring this knowledge is the main goal of this course. Established numerical methods to solve the incompressible and compressible Navier-Stokes equations are explained, whereas the focus lies on finite volume methods for compressible flow simulations. In that context, first the main theory and then numerical schemes related to hyperbolic conservation laws are explained, whereas not only examples from fluid mechanics, but also simpler, yet illustrative ones are considered (e.g. Burgers and traffic flow equations). In addition, two less commonly used yet powerful approaches, i.e., the Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) and Lattice Boltzmann methods, are introduced. For most exercises a C++ code will have to be modified and applied. | |||||
| Content | - Finite-difference vs. finite-element vs. finite-volume methods - Basic approach to simulate incompressible flows - Brief introduction to turbulence modeling - Theory and numerical methods for compressible flow simulations - Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) - Lattice Boltzmann method | |||||
| Lecture notes | Part of the course is based on the referenced books. In addition, the participants receive a manuscript and the slides. | |||||
| Literature | "Computational Fluid Dynamics" by H. K. Versteeg and W. Malalasekera. "Finite Volume Methods for Hyperbolic Problems" by R. J. Leveque. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Basic knowledge in - fluid dynamics - numerical mathematics - programming (programming language is not important, but C++ is of advantage) | |||||
| 151-0214-00L | Turbomachinery Mechanics and Dynamics Prerequisites of this course are listed under "catalogue data". | W | 4 credits | 3G | A. Zemp | |
| Abstract | Designing gas turbines means to translate the aerodynamic and thermodynamic intentions into a system, which is both mechanically sound and manufacturable at reasonable cost. This lecture is aimed at giving a comprehensive overview of the mechanical and design requirements, which must be fulfilled by a safe and reliable machine. Material and life prediction methods will be addressed as well. | |||||
| Objective | To understand the mechanical behaviour of the mechanical systems of gas turbines. To know the risks of mechanical and thermomechanical malfunctions and the corresponding design requirements. To be able to argue on mechanical design requirements in a comprehensive manner. | |||||
| Content | 1) Introduction and Engine Classes 2) Rotor and Combustor Design 3) Rotor Dynamics 4) Excursion 5) Blade Dynamics 6) Blade and Vane Attachments 7) Bearings and Seals 8) Gears and Lubrication 9) Spectrum Analysis 10) Balancing and Lifing 11) Couplings and Alignment 12) Control Systems and Instrumentation 13) Maintenance Techniques | |||||
| Lecture notes | Download during semester. | |||||
| Literature | Literature and internet links are given in downloadable slides. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | 4 - 5 Exercises Excursion to a gas turbine manufacturer. REQUIRED knowledge of the lectures: 1) Thermodynamics III 2) Mechanics knowledge equivalent to Bachelor's degree RECOMMENDED knowledge of one or more of the lectures: 1) Aerospace Propulsion 2) Turbomachinery Design 3) Gasturbinen: Prozesse und Verbrennungssysteme | |||||
| 151-0215-00L | Introduction to Acoustics, Aeroacoustics and Thermoacoustics | W | 4 credits | 3G | N. Noiray | |
| Abstract | This course provides an introduction to Acoustics. The focus will be on phenomena that are relevant for industrial and transport applications in the contexts of noise pollution and mechanical fatigue due to acoustic-structure interactions. It should be noted that the lecture focuses on the derivation and interpretation of analytical expression to explain various acoustic phenomena. | |||||
| Objective | This course is proposed for Master and PhD students interested in getting knowledge in acoustics. Students will be able to understand, describe analytically and quantify sound generation, absorption and propagation in configurations that are relevant for practical industrial applications (for example in aeronautics, automotive industry or power plants). | |||||
| Content | First, orders of magnitudes characterizing sound propagation are reviewed and the constitutive equations for acoustics are derived. Then the different types of sources (monopole/dipole/quadrupole, punctual, non-compact) are introduced and linked to the noise generated by turbulent flows, coherent vortical structures or fluctuating heat release. The scattering of sound by rigid bodies is given in basic configurations. Analytical, experimental and numerical methods used to analyze sound in ducts and rooms are presented (Green functions, Galerkin expansions, Helmholtz solvers). Modeling strategies to predict self-sustained acoustic oscillations driven by reacting and non-reacting flows are presented. Finally, guidelines to design active and passive control systems are given. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts will be distributed during the class | |||||
| Literature | Books will be recommended for each chapter | |||||
| 151-0224-00L | Synthesis Fuel Engineering Does not take place this semester. | W | 4 credits | 3V | ||
| Abstract | This course will cover current and prospective chemical fuel technologies. It addresses both fossil and renewable resources technologies. | |||||
| Objective | Develop a basic understanding of the many convential and renewable fuel synthesis and processing technollogies. | |||||
| Content | Fuels overview including fuel utilization and economics. Conventional fuel module will cover fuel synthesis, refining and upgrading technologies. Renewable fuel module will cover fule synthesis via photo-, electro-, and thermochemical H2O and CO2 splitting and biomass conversion technologies. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Will be available electronically. | |||||
| Literature | A) Synthetic Fuels Handbook: Properties, Process and Performace, J.G. Speight, Ed McGraw Hill, 2008; B) Synthetic Fuels, R.F. Probstein and R.E. Hicks, Ed. Dover Publications, 2006; C) Fischer-Tropsch Refining, Arno de Klerk, Ed. Wiley-VCH, 2011; D) Modeling and Simulation of Catalytic Reactors for Petroleum Refining, J. Ancheyta, Ed. Wiley, 2011. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | A fundamental understanding of chemistry and engineering is strongly recommended. | |||||
| 151-0226-00L | Energy and Transport Futures | W | 4 credits | 3G | K. Boulouchos, P. J. de Haan van der Weg, G. Georges | |
| Abstract | The course teaches to view local energy solutions as part of the larger energy system. Because it powers all sectors, local changes can have consequences reaching well beyond one sector. While we explore all sectors, we put a particular emphasis on mobility and its unique challenges. We not only cover engineering aspects, but also policymaking and behavioral economics. | |||||
| Objective | The main objectives of this lecture are: (i) Systemic view on the Energy Sytem with emphasis on Transport Applications (ii) Students can assess the reduction of energy demand (or greenhouse gas emissions) of sectoral solutions. (iii) Students understand the advantages and disadvantages of technology options in mobility, and have a basic overview over those in other sectors (iv) Students know policy tools to affect change in mobility, and understand the rebound effect. | |||||
| Content | The course describes the role of energy system plays for the well-being of modern societies, and drafts a future energy system based on renewable energy sources, able to meet the demands of the sectors building, industry and transport. The projected Swiss energy system is used as an example. Students learn how all sectoral solutions feedback on the whole system and how sector coupling could lead to optimal transformation paths. The course then focuses on the history, status quo and technical potentials of the transport sector. Policy mixes to reduce energy demand and CO2 emissions from transport are introduced. Both direct and indirect effects of different policy types are discussed. Concepts from behavioral economics (car purchase behavior and rebound effects) are presented. Preliminary schedule: 1 Introduction: Energy and Society 2 Global Energy System of Planet Earth 3 Challenges Ahead: Climate, Environment, Security of Supply 4 Buildings and Industrial Processes 5 Power Generation 6 Transport Sector (All modes) 7 Sector Coupling – A system approach for optimal design 8 Status Quo and Historic Development of Mobility 9 Vehicle Technology – Useful Energy 10 Powertrain Technology Paths 11 Energy Infrastructure for Transport 12 Technology diffusion and policy instruments 13 Current transport policies in the EU and in Switzerland 14 Effects and side-effects of current policies | |||||
| Lecture notes | t.b.d. | |||||
| Literature | t.b.d. | |||||
| 151-0252-00L | Gasturbines: Cycles and Combustion Systems | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | P. Jansohn | |
| Abstract | Gasturbines are used in various applications such as power generation, mechanical drives, jet engines and ship propulsion because they offer high efficiency and low emissions. For all operating conditions the chosen combustion concepts (mainly lean premix combustion) have to maintain stable heat release (combustion reactions) and low pollutant (NOx, CO) formation. | |||||
| Objective | Get familiar with the basics of combustion systems in various gas turbine types; acquire knowledge about gas turbine applications and gas turbine based thermodynamic cycles; learn about gas turbine combustor geometries and design rules; understand combustion characteristics for specific conditions relevant to gas turbines; emission characteristics (NOx, CO, soot)of gas turbine combustors; flame stability and thermoacoustics; combustion properties of a range of gas turbine fuels | |||||
| Content | gasturbine types and applications - aero engines, stationary gas turbines, mechanical drives, industrial gas turbines mobile applications gasturbine cycles (thermodynamics) - cycle characteristics, efficiency, specific power, process parameters (temp., pressure). energy balance & mass flows - compression work, expansion work, heat release, secondary air system, exhaust gas losses. gasturbine components (introduction, basics) - compressor, combustor, turbine, heat exchanger, ... . burner/combustor systems - fuel/air mixing, fuels, combustor geometries, burner configurations, flame stabilization, heat exchange/cooling schemes, emission characteristics. flame stabilization and thermoacoustics. combustion technologies - lean premix combustion, staged combustion, piloting, swirl flames, operating concepts. new technologies/current research topics - catalytic combustion, flameless combustion, wet combustion, Zero Emission Concepts (incl. CO2 separation) | |||||
| Lecture notes | booklet of slides (printing cost will be charged) | |||||
| Literature | suggestions/recommendations for additional literature studies given in the script (for each individual chapter/topic) | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | basics in thermodynamics / thermodynamic cycles of heat engines; basics in combustion technologies | |||||
| 151-0254-00L | IC-Engines and Propulsion Systems II | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | K. Boulouchos, C. Barro, P. Dimopoulos Eggenschwiler | |
| Abstract | Turbulent flowfield in IC engines. Ignition, premixed flame propagation, knock in homogeneous charge, external ignition engines (otto). Compression-ignition diesel engines, incl. mixture formation and HCCI concepts. Direct ignition. Pollutant formation mechanism (NOx, particulates, unburned hydrocarbons) and their minimization. Catalytic exhaust aftertreatment methods for all pollutant categories. | |||||
| Objective | The students get a further insight in the internal combustion engine by means of the topics mentioned in the abstract. This knowledge is applied in several calculation exercises and lab exercises at the engine test bench. The students additionally get an introduction in exhaust gas aftertreatment systems. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Handouts are in German and English. | |||||
| Literature | J.B. Heywood, Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals, McGraw-Hill Mechanical Engineering | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | By request lectured in English. This course is a natural extension of the course 'IC-Engines and Propulsion Systems I' (151-0251-00L). The content of that lecture is assumed known. Basic knowledge of thermodynamics and combustion is required. It is beneficial to have attended the course 'Combustion and Reactive Processes in Energy and Materials Technology' (151-0293-00L). | |||||
| 151-0262-00L | Laser Diagnostics, Optical Measurement and Experimental Instrumentation | W | 4 credits | 3G | K. Herrmann | |
| Abstract | The focus of the course is optical measurement and laser diagnostics in engineering, particularly related to combustion research. The course also covers measurement instrumentation and application of sensors in experiments. Laboratory exercises provide hands-on experience and demonstrations of research test facilities illustrate the course content. | |||||
| Objective | - Understand fundamentals of instrumentation, data acquisition, processing and analysis - Know how to apply sensors and probes in thermal and fluid engineering - Get an overview of optical measurement techniques and laser diagnostics - Obtain hands-on experience at experimental test facilities | |||||
| Content | I) Experiment instrumentation : measuring chain, signal- and data acquisition, processing and analysis II) Probes and sensors: measurement principles, acquisition of velocity, force, pressure, temperature, etc. and specific optical sensors III) Non-intrusive measurement techniques: passive/active optical and spectroscopic techniques for acquisition of flow (mixing, turbulence), sprays (droplets), flame (propagation) and concentration (chemical species) Laboratory exercises (e.g. Michelson interferometer) give hands-on experience on optical measurement methods. Further practical courses demonstrate advanced measurement techniques at experimental research test facilities of other institutes or universities: laser-induced fluorescence (PSI), laser Doppler velocimetry (Empa) and IC engine test rig (FHNW). | |||||
| Lecture notes | Presentation slides are provided as handouts | |||||
| Literature | Hecht E. "Optics", Addison Wesley, ISBN-13: 9780805385663 Settles G.S. "Schlieren and Shadowgraph Techniques", Springer, ISBN 13 978-3-540-66155-9 Demtröder W. "Laser Spectroscopy", Springer, ISBN 978-3-540-73415-4 Zhao H. "Laser Diagnostics and Optical Measurement Techniques in Internal Combustion Engines", SAE, ISBN 978-0-7680-5782-9 | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Since the extensive exercises can't be performed in 1 h per week, please be prepared that a specific schedule needs to be set up - probably 5 exercises, each executed during one afternoon (2-3 h). Some exercises are also located at external research institutes (e.g. PSI, Empa) or universities (e.g. FHNW). | |||||
| 151-0280-00L | Advanced Techniques for the Risk Analysis of Technical Systems | W | 4 credits | 2V + 1U | G. Sansavini | |
| Abstract | The course provides advanced tools for the risk/vulnerability analysis and engineering of complex technical systems and critical infrastructures. It covers application of modeling techniques and design management concepts for strengthening the performance and robustness of such systems, with reference to energy, communication and transportation systems. | |||||
| Objective | Students will be able to model complex technical systems and critical infrastructures including their dependencies and interdependencies. They will learn how to select and apply appropriate numerical techniques to quantify the technical risk and vulnerability in different contexts (Monte Carlo simulation, Markov chains, complex network theory). Students will be able to evaluate which method for quantification and propagation of the uncertainty of the vulnerability is more appropriate for various complex technical systems. At the end of the course, they will be able to propose design improvements and protection/mitigation strategies to reduce risks and vulnerabilities of these systems. | |||||
| Content | Modern technical systems and critical infrastructures are complex, highly integrated and interdependent. Examples of these are highly integrated energy supply, energy supply with high penetrations of renewable energy sources, communication, transport, and other physically networked critical infrastructures that provide vital social services. As a result, standard risk-assessment tools are insufficient in evaluating the levels of vulnerability, reliability, and risk. This course offers suitable analytical models and computational methods to tackle this issue with scientific accuracy. Students will develop competencies which are typically requested for the formation of experts in reliability design, safety and protection of complex technical systems and critical infrastructures. Specific topics include: - Introduction to complex technical systems and critical infrastructures - Basics of the Markov approach to system modeling for reliability and availability analysis - Monte Carlo simulation for reliability and availability analysis - Markov Chain Monte Carlo for applications to reliability and availability analysis - Dependent, common cause and cascading failures - Complex network theory for the vulnerability analysis of complex technical systems and critical infrastructures - Basic concepts of uncertainty and sensitivity analysis in support to the analysis of the reliability and risk of complex systems under incomplete knowledge of their behavior Practical exercitations and computational problems will be carried out and solved both during classroom tutorials and as homework. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Slides and other materials will be available online | |||||
| Literature | The class will be largely based on the books: - "Computational Methods For Reliability And Risk Analysis" by E. Zio, World Scientific Publishing Company - "Vulnerable Systems" by W. Kröger and E. Zio, Springer - additional recommendations for text books will be covered in the class | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Fundamentals of Probability | |||||
| 151-0530-00L | Nonlinear Dynamics and Chaos II | W | 4 credits | 4G | G. Haller | |
| Abstract | The internal structure of chaos; Hamiltonian dynamical systems; Normally hyperbolic invariant manifolds; Geometric singular perturbation theory; Finite-time dynamical systems | |||||
| Objective | The course introduces the student to advanced, comtemporary concepts of nonlinear dynamical systems analysis. | |||||
| Content | I. The internal structure of chaos: symbolic dynamics, Bernoulli shift map, sub-shifts of finite type; chaos is numerical iterations. II.Hamiltonian dynamical systems: conservation and recurrence, stability of fixed points, integrable systems, invariant tori, Liouville-Arnold-Jost Theorem, KAM theory. III. Normally hyperbolic invariant manifolds: Crash course on differentiable manifolds, existence, persistence, and smoothness, applications. IV. Geometric singular perturbation theory: slow manifolds and their stability, physical examples. V. Finite-time dynamical system; detecting Invariant manifolds and coherent structures in finite-time flows | |||||
| Lecture notes | Students have to prepare their own lecture notes | |||||
| Literature | Books will be recommended in class | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Nonlinear Dynamics I (151-0532-00) or equivalent | |||||
| 151-0928-00L | CO2 Capture and Storage and the Industry of Carbon-Based Resources | W | 4 credits | 3G | M. Mazzotti, L. Bretschger, R. Knutti, C. Müller, M. Repmann, T. Schmidt, D. Sutter | |
| Abstract | Carbon-based resources (coal, oil, gas): origin, production, processing, resource economics. Climate change: science, policies. CCS systems: CO2 capture in power/industrial plants, CO2 transport and storage. Besides technical details, economical, legal and societal aspects are considered (e.g. electricity markets, barriers to deployment). | |||||
| Objective | The goal of the lecture is to introduce carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) systems, the technical solutions developed so far and the current research questions. This is done in the context of the origin, production, processing and economics of carbon-based resources, and of climate change issues. After this course, students are familiar with important technical and non-technical issues related to use of carbon resources, climate change, and CCS as a transitional mitigation measure. The class will be structured in 2 hours of lecture and one hour of exercises/discussion. At the end of the semester a group project is planned. | |||||
| Content | Both the Swiss and the European energy system face a number of significant challenges over the coming decades. The major concerns are the security and economy of energy supply and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuels will continue to satisfy the largest part of the energy demand in the medium term for Europe, and they could become part of the Swiss energy portfolio due to the planned phase out of nuclear power. Carbon capture and storage is considered an important option for the decarbonization of the power sector and it is the only way to reduce emissions in CO2 intensive industrial plants (e.g. cement- and steel production). Building on the previously offered class "Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS)", we have added two specific topics: 1) the industry of carbon-based resources, i.e. what is upstream of the CCS value chain, and 2) the science of climate change, i.e. why and how CO2 emissions are a problem. The course is devided into four parts: I) The first part will be dedicated to the origin, production, and processing of conventional as well as of unconventional carbon-based resources. II) The second part will comprise two lectures from experts in the field of climate change sciences and resource economics. III) The third part will explain the technical details of CO2 capture (current and future options) as well as of CO2 storage and utilization options, taking again also economical, legal, and sociatel aspects into consideration. IV) The fourth part will comprise two lectures from industry experts, one with focus on electricity markets, the other on the experiences made with CCS technologies in the industry. Throughout the class, time will be allocated to work on a number of tasks related to the theory, individually, in groups, or in plenum. Moreover, the students will apply the theoretical knowledge acquired during the course in a case study covering all the topics. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Power Point slides and distributed handouts | |||||
| Literature | IPCC AR5 Climate Change 2014: Synthesis Report, 2014. www.ipcc.ch/report/ar5/syr/ IPCC Special Report on Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage, 2005. www.ipcc.ch/activity/srccs/index.htm The Global Status of CCS: 2014. Published by the Global CCS Institute, Nov 2014. http://www.globalccsinstitute.com/publications/global-status-ccs-2014 | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | External lecturers from the industry and other institutes will contribute with specialized lectures according to the schedule distributed at the beginning of the semester. | |||||
| 151-0946-00L | Macromolecular Engineering: Networks and Gels | W | 4 credits | 4G | M. Tibbitt | |
| Abstract | This course will provide an introduction to the design and physics of soft matter with a focus on polymer networks and hydrogels. The course will integrate fundamental aspects of polymer physics, engineering of soft materials, mechanics of viscoelastic materials, applications of networks and gels in biomedical applications including tissue engineering, 3D printing, and drug delivery. | |||||
| Objective | The main learning objectives of this course are: 1. Identify the key characteristics of soft matter and the properties of ideal and non-ideal macromolecules. 2. Calculate the physical properties of polymers in solution. 3. Predict macroscale properties of polymer networks and gels based on constituent chemical structure and topology. 4. Design networks and gels for industrial and biomedical applications. 5. Read and evaluate research papers on recent research on networks and gels and communicate the content orally to a multidisciplinary audience. | |||||
| Lecture notes | Class notes and handouts. | |||||
| Literature | Polymer Physics by M. Rubinstein and R.H. Colby; samplings from other texts. | |||||
| Prerequisites / Notice | Physics I+II, Thermodynamics I+II | |||||
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