Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2020

Number	Title	Type	ECTS	Hours	Lecturers
Civil Engineering Master
Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2020)
1. Semester
Major Courses
Major in Transport Systems
101-0427-01L	Public Transport Design and Operations	O	6 credits	4G	F. Corman, F. Leutwiler
Abstract	This course aims at analyzing, designing, improving public transport systems, as part of the overall transport system.
Objective	Public 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.
Content	Basics 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 notes	Lecture slides are provided.
Literature	Ceder, 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)
101-0437-00L	Traffic Engineering	O	6 credits	4G	A. Kouvelas
Abstract	Fundamentals of traffic flow theory and control.
Objective	The objective of this course is to fully understand the fundamentals of traffic flow theory in order to effectively manage traffic operations. By the end of this course students should be able to apply basic techniques to model different aspects of urban and inter-urban traffic performance, including congestion.
Content	Introduction to fundamentals of traffic flow theory and control. Includes understanding of traffic data collection and processing techniques, as well as data analysis, traffic modeling, and methodologies for traffic control.
Lecture notes	The lecture notes and additional handouts will be provided during the lectures.
Literature	Additional literature recommendations will be provided during the lectures.
Prerequisites / Notice	Verkehr III - Road Transport Systems 6th Sem. BSc (101-0415-00L) Special permission from the instructor can be requested if the student has not taken Verkehr III
101-0417-00L	Transport Planning Methods	W	6 credits	4G	A. Erath Rusterholtz, M. van Eggermond
Abstract	The course provides the necessary knowledge to develop models supporting and also evaluating the solution of given planning problems. The course is composed of a lecture part, providing the theoretical knowledge, and an applied part in which students develop their own models in order to evaluate a transport project/ policy by means of cost-benefit analysis.
Objective	- Knowledge and understanding of statistical methods and algorithms commonly used in transport planning - Comprehend the reasoning and capabilities of transport models - Ability to independently develop a transport model able to solve / answer planning problem - Getting familiar with cost-benefit analysis as a decision-making supporting tool
Content	The course provides the necessary knowledge to develop models supporting the solution of given planning problems and also introduces cost-benefit analysis as a decision-making tool. Examples of such planning problems are the estimation of traffic volumes, prediction of estimated utilization of new public transport lines, and evaluation of effects (e.g. change in emissions of a city) triggered by building new infrastructure and changes to operational regulations. To cope with that, the problem is divided into sub-problems, which are solved using various statistical models (e.g. regression, discrete choice analysis) and algorithms (e.g. iterative proportional fitting, shortest path algorithms, method of successive averages). The course is composed of a lecture part, providing the theoretical knowledge, and an applied part in which students develop their own models in order to evaluate a transport project/ policy by means of cost-benefit analysis. Interim lab session take place regularly to guide and support students with the applied part of the course.
Lecture notes	Moodle platform (enrollment needed)
Literature	Willumsen, P. and J. de D. Ortuzar (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. Schnabel, W. and D. Lohse (1997) Verkehrsplanung, 2. edn., vol. 2 of Grundlagen der Strassenverkehrstechnik und der Verkehrsplanung, Verlag für Bauwesen, Berlin. McCarthy, P.S. (2001) Transportation Economics: A case study approach, Blackwell, Oxford.
401-0647-00L	Introduction to Mathematical Optimization	W	5 credits	2V + 1U	D. Adjiashvili
Abstract	Introduction to basic techniques and problems in mathematical optimization, and their applications to a variety of problems in engineering.
Objective	The goal of the course is to obtain a good understanding of some of the most fundamental mathematical optimization techniques used to solve linear programs and basic combinatorial optimization problems. The students will also practice applying the learned models to problems in engineering.
Content	Topics covered in this course include: - Linear programming (simplex method, duality theory, shadow prices, ...). - Basic combinatorial optimization problems (spanning trees, shortest paths, network flows, ...). - Modelling with mathematical optimization: applications of mathematical programming in engineering.
Literature	Information about relevant literature will be given in the lecture.
Prerequisites / Notice	This course is meant for students who did not already attend the course "Mathematical Optimization", which is a more advance lecture covering similar topics. Compared to "Mathematical Optimization", this course has a stronger focus on modeling and applications.
103-0317-00L	Introduction to Spatial Development and Transformation Only for master students, otherwise a special permisson by the lecturer is required.	W	3 credits	2G	M. Nollert, D. Kaufmann
Abstract	The course deals with important theoretical, material and methodical foundations for action and decision-making of spatial relevance. This course discusses central tasks and possible solutions for current and future challenges of spatial development in Switzerland and Europe.
Objective	Spatial development deals with the development, formation and arrangement of our environment. In order to be able to mediate between the different demands, interests and projects of multiple actors, a forward-looking, action-oriented and robust planning is necessary. It is committed - in the sense of a sustainable spatial development - to the economical handling of resources, in particular of the non-replicable resource soil. The lecture introduces necessary basic knowledge and is based on the following main topics: – Inward development and challenges of spatial transformation – The (political) steering of spatial development – Interplay of formal and informal processes and processes across different scales of spatial development – Methods of action-oriented planning in situations of insecurity – Integrated space and infrastructure development – Different types of participation in spatial development By taking up the lecture, the students are able to recognize cross-scale, complex tasks of spatial development and transformation and to use their theoretical, methodical and professional knowledge to clarify them.
Content	Tasks of spatial planning and spatial development – Theories and instruments to plan and steer spatial development – Local and supra-local tasks – Formal and informal tools and procedures – Regularities of spatial changes, influencing factors and indicators – Conflicts, problems and opportunities of spatial relevance – Participation of different actors in spatial development Methodology of action-oriented planning: – Spatial planning as sequences of actions and decisions – The influence of knowledge and language in planning – Spatial assessment and reasoning – Process and process management Focus tasks: – Inward development and transformation – Integrated spatial and infrastructure development – Transboundary issues of spatial development – Transboundary issues of spatial development
Lecture notes	Further information and the documents for the lecture can be found on the homepage of IRL/STL
151-0227-00L	Basics of Air Transport (Aviation I)	W	4 credits	3G	P. Wild
Abstract	In general the course explains the main principles of air transport and elaborates on simple interdisciplinary topics. Working on broad 14 different topics like aerodynamics, manufacturers, airport operations, business aviation, business models etc. the students get a good overview in air transportation. The program is taught in English and we provide 11 different experts/lecturers.
Objective	The goal is to understand and explain basics, principles and contexts of the broader air transport industry. Further, we provide the tools for starting a career in the air transport industry. The knowledge may also be used for other modes of transport. Ideal foundation for Aviation II - Management of Air Transport.
Content	Weekly: 1h independent preparation; 2h lectures and 1 h training with an expert in the respective field Concept: This course will be tought as Aviation I. A subsequent course - Aviation II - covers the "Management of Air Transport". Content: Transport as part of the overall transportation scheme; Aerodynamics; Aircraft (A/C) Designs & Structures; A/C Operations; Aviation Law; Maintenance & Manufacturers; Airport Operations & Planning; Aviation Security; ATC & Airspace; Air Freight; General Aviation; Business Jet Operations; Business models within Airline Industry; Military Aviation. Excusions: In the past few years, we conducted two excursions for this course. Yet, under COVID the situation is to complicated so that we have to cancel both events. We may offer students to register in one of the next excursions....thank you for your understanding
Lecture notes	Preparation materials & slides are provided prior to each class
Literature	Literature will be provided by the lecturers, respectively there will be additional Information upon registration
Prerequisites / Notice	None
227-0523-00L	Railway Systems I	W	6 credits	4G	M. Meyer
Abstract	Basic characteristis of railway vehicles and their interfaces with the railway infrastructure: - Transportation tasks and vehicle types - Running dynamics - Mechanical part of rail vehicles - Brakes - Traction chain and auxiliary supply - Railway power supply - Signalling systems - Standards - Availability and safety - Traffic control and maintenance
Objective	- Overview of the technical characteristics of railway systems - Know-how about the design and construction principles of rail vehicles - Interrelationship between different fields of engineering sciences (mechanics, electro and information technology, transport systems) - Understanding tasks and opportunities of engineers working in an environment which has strong economical and political boundaries - Insight into the activities of the railway vehicle industry and railway operators in Switzerland - Motivation of young engineers to start a career in the railway industry or with railway operators
Content	EST I (Herbstsemester) - Begriffen, Grundlagen, Merkmale 1 Einführung: 1.1 Geschichte und Struktur des Bahnsystems 1.2 Fahrdynamik 2 Vollbahnfahrzeuge: 2.3 Mechanik: Kasten, Drehgestelle, Lauftechnik, Adhäsion 2.2 Bremsen 2.3 Traktionsantriebssysteme 2.4 Hilfsbetriebe und Komfortanlagen 2.5 Steuerung und Regelung 3 Infrastruktur: 3.1 Fahrweg 3.2 Bahnstromversorgung 3.3 Sicherungsanlagen 4 Betrieb: 4.1 Interoperabilität, Normen und Zulassung 4.2 RAMS, LCC 4.3 Anwendungsbeispiele Voraussichtlich ein oder zwei Gastreferate Geplante Exkursionen: Betriebszentrale SBB, Zürich Flughafen Reparatur und Unterhalt, SBB Zürich Altstetten Fahrzeugfertigung, Stadler Bussnang
Lecture notes	Abgabe der Unterlagen (gegen eine Schutzgebühr) zu Beginn des Semesters. Rechtzeitig eingschriebene Teilnehmer können die Unterlagen auf Wunsch und gegen eine Zusatzgebühr auch in Farbe beziehen.
Prerequisites / Notice	Dozent: Dr. Markus Meyer, Emkamatik GmbH Voraussichtlich ein oder zwei Gastvorträge von anderen Referenten. EST I (Herbstsemester) kann als in sich geschlossene einsemestrige Vorlesung besucht werden. EST II (Frühjahrssemester) dient der weiteren Vertiefung der Fahrzeugtechnik und der Integration in die Bahninfrastruktur.
101-0509-00L	Infrastructure Management 1: Process	W	6 credits	3G	B. T. Adey, C. Kielhauser
Abstract	The course provides an introduction to the steps included in the infrastructure management process.
Objective	Upon completion of the course, students will - understand the steps required to manage infrastructure effectively, and - understand the complexity of these steps.
Content	The lectures are structured as follows: - Introduction - Setting goals and constraints - Predicting the future - Determining and justifying interventions - Determining and justifying monitoring - Converting programs to projects - Analysing projects - Ensuring good information - Ensuring a well run organisation - Describing the IM process - Evaluating the IM process
Lecture notes	Appropriate reading / and study material will be handed out during the course. Transparencies will be handed out at the beginning of each class.
Literature	Appropriate literature will be handed out when required.
363-1047-00L	Urban Systems and Transportation	W	3 credits	2G	G. Loumeau
Abstract	This course is an introduction to urban and regional economics. It focuses on the formation and development of urban systems, and highlight how transport infrastructure investments can affect the location, size and composition of such systems.
Objective	The main objective of this course is to provide students with some basic tools to analyze the fundamental economic forces at play in urban systems (i.e., agglomeration and congestion forces), and the role of transport networks in shaping the structure of these systems. Why do urban areas grow or decline? How do transport networks affect the location of individuals and firms? Does the location of a firm determine its productivity? Can transport infrastructure investments reduce economic disparities? These are some of the questions that students should be able to answer after having completed the course.
Content	The course is organized in four parts. I start with the key observation that economic activity (both in terms of population density and productivity) is unevenly distributed in space. For instance, the share of the population living in urban centers is increasing globally, from 16% in 1900 and 50% in 2000 to about 68% by the year 2050 (UN, World Economic Prospects, 2014). The goal of the first part is then to understand the economic forces at play behind these trends, looking at the effects within and across urban areas. I will also discuss how natural or man-made geographical characteristics (e.g., rivers, mountains, borders, etc.) affect the development of such urban systems. In the second part, I discuss the planning and pricing of transport networks, moving from simple local models to more complex transport models at a global scale. The key aspects include: the first and second best road pricing, the public provision of transport networks and the demographic effects of transport networks. In the third part, I combine the previous two parts and analyze the interaction between urban systems and transportation. Thereby, the main focus is to understand the economic mechanisms that can lead to a general equilibrium of all actors involved. However, as the study of the historical development of urban systems and transport networks provides interesting insights, I will discuss how their interaction in the past shapes today’s economic geography. Finally, I broaden the scope of the course and explore related topics. There will be a particular emphasis on the relation between urban systems and fiscal federalism as well as environmental policies. Both aspects are important determinants of the contemporary developments of urban systems, and as such deserve our attention. In general, this class focuses on the latest research developments in urban and regional economics, though it does not require prior knowledge in this field. It pays particular attention to economic approaches, which are based on theoretical frameworks with strong micro-foundations and allow for precise policy recommendations.
Lecture notes	Course slides will be made available to students prior to each class.
Literature	Course slides will be made available to students.

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