Search result: Catalogue data in Spring Semester 2023

Mechanical Engineering Master Information
Core Courses
Bioengineering
The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
151-0306-00LVisualization, Simulation and Interaction - Virtual Reality I Information W4 credits4GA. Kunz
AbstractTechnology of Virtual Reality. Human factors, Creation of virtual worlds, Lighting models, Display- and acoustic- systems, Tracking, Haptic/tactile interaction, Motion platforms, Virtual prototypes, Data exchange, VR Complete systems, Augmented reality, Collaboration systems; VR and Design; Implementation of the VR in the industry; Human Computer Interfaces (HCI).
Learning objectiveThe product development process in the future will be characterized by the Digital Product which is the center point for concurrent engineering with teams spreas worldwide. Visualization and simulation of complex products including their physical behaviour at an early stage of development will be relevant in future. The lecture will give an overview to techniques for virtual reality, to their ability to visualize and to simulate objects. It will be shown how virtual reality is already used in the product development process.
• Students are able to evaluate and select the most appropriate VR technology for a given task regarding:
o Visualization technologies displays/projection systems/head-mounted displays
o Tracking systems (inertia/optical/electromagnetic)
o Interaction technologies (sensing gloves/real walking/eye tracking/touch/etc.)
• Students are able to develop a VR application
• Students are able to apply VR to industrial needs
• Students will be able to apply the gained knowledge to a practical realization
• Students will be able to compare different operation principles (VR/AR/MR/XR)
ContentIntroduction to the world of virtual reality; development of new VR-techniques; introduction to 3D-computergraphics; modelling; physical based simulation; human factors; human interaction; equipment for virtual reality; display technologies; tracking systems; data gloves; interaction in virtual environment; navigation; collision detection; haptic and tactile interaction; rendering; VR-systems; VR-applications in industry, virtual mockup; data exchange, augmented reality.
Lecture notesA complete version of the handout is also available in English.
Prerequisites / NoticeVoraussetzungen: keine
Vorlesung geeignet für D-MAVT, D-ITET, D-MTEC und D-INF

Testat/ Kredit-Bedingungen/ Prüfung:
–Teilnahme an Vorlesung und Kolloquien
–Erfolgreiche Durchführung von Übungen in Teams
151-0522-00LCase Studies in Computer Aided Engineering - Applied FEMW4 credits3GD. Valtorta
AbstractModeling and Simulation class: application of the Finite Element Method to challenging engineering projects.
Case studies selected in different engineering disciplines will be presented with the contribution of external experts from Swiss companies and research institutions. Students will apply their theoretical knowledge and use Computer Aided Engineering tools to solve real engineering tasks.
Learning objectiveThe aim of the course is to introduce students to the simulation-based engineering design with CAE methods. A set of case studies demonstrating the application of CAE will be presented in different engineering fields: design of lightweight structures, strength assessment of mechanical components, dynamics and vibrations, fluid structure interaction, topology optimization and biomechanics.
Class will focus on the engineering approach to analyze complex systems: idealization throughout advanced modeling techniques, state of the art simulations using FEA software as a tool, validation of simulation models and comparison with experimental methods.

Students will learn how to practice their theoretical knowledge and apply it to real engineering problems, use FEA software to build up complex models, critically analyze and validate results, and document them in a scientific report.
ContentIn the first introductory part of the course, students will receive basic knowledge of modeling and simulation techniques. Simple mechanical problems will be solved using FEA software and compared to theoretical solutions for validation purposes. Several examples will be presented to introduce students to CAE, mainly focused on structural mechanics, but also giving an overview on fluid dynamics, fluid structure interaction and electromagnetics for complex Multiphysics simulations.

In the second part of the course, a real industry case study will be presented every week, with the contribution of industry experts and guest speakers. Students will practice the engineering workflow to solve complex problems by building up simulation models, combining their theoretical knowledge with advanced FEA software tools.

Among all case studies presented, students are requested to choose 2 different subjects and to thoroughly investigate them. The results of their work shall be summarized in a technical report and submitted for the admission to the oral examination. Results of their analyses will be presented and discussed with the examiners during the oral examination.
Lecture notesLecture notes will be shared with students on Moodle throughout the semester.
LiteratureNo textbook required. Theory books will be recommended in each lecture for selected topics.
Prerequisites / NoticePrior knowledge of FEA theory and practice is not mandatory, during the first half of the course students will have the possibility to familiarize with FEA software using simple examples.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Customer Orientationassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
151-0530-00LNonlinear Dynamics and Chaos IIW4 credits4GG. Haller
AbstractThe internal structure of chaos; Hamiltonian dynamical systems; Normally hyperbolic invariant manifolds; Geometric singular perturbation theory; Finite-time dynamical systems
Learning objectiveThe course introduces the student to advanced, comtemporary concepts of nonlinear dynamical systems analysis.
ContentI. 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 notesHandwritten instructor's notes and typed lecture notes will be downloadable from Moodle.
LiteratureBooks will be recommended in class
Prerequisites / NoticeNonlinear Dynamics I (151-0532-00) or equivalent
151-0630-00LNanorobotics Information W4 credits2V + 1US. Pané Vidal
AbstractNanorobotics is an interdisciplinary field that includes topics from nanotechnology and robotics. The aim of this course is to expose students to the fundamental and essential aspects of this emerging field.
Learning objectiveThe aim of this course is to expose students to the fundamental and essential aspects of this emerging field. These topics include basic principles of nanorobotics, building parts for nanorobotic systems, powering and locomotion of nanorobots, manipulation, assembly and sensing using nanorobots, molecular motors, and nanorobotics for nanomedicine.
151-0636-00LSoft and Biohybrid Robotics Information Restricted registration - show details W4 credits3GR. Katzschmann
AbstractSoft and biohybrid robotics are emerging fields taking inspiration from nature to create robots that are inherently safer to interact with. You learn how to create structures, actuators, sensors, models, controllers, and machine learning architectures exploiting the deformable nature of soft robots. You also learn how to apply soft robotic principles to challenges of your research domain.
Learning objectiveLearning Objective 1: Solve a robotics challenge with a soft robotic design
Step 1: Formulate suitable functional requirements for the challenge
Step 2: Select soft robotic actuator material
Step 3: Design and fabrication approach suitable for the challenge
Step 4: Basic controller for robotic functionality

Learning Objective 2: Formulate modeling, control, and learning frameworks for highly articulated robots in real-life scenarios
Step 1: Formulate the dynamic skills needed for the real-life scenario
Step 2: Pick + combine suitable multiphysics modeling, control + learning techniques for this scenario
Step 3: Evaluate the modeling/control approach for a real-life scenario
Step 4: Modify and enhance the modeling/control approach and repeat the evaluation
Step 5: Choose a learning approach for complex robotic skills

Learning Objective 3: Apply the principles of mechanical impedance and embodied intelligence to soft robotic challenges in various domains
Step 1: Identify the moving aspects of the problem
Step 2: Choose and design the passive and actively-controlled degrees of freedom
Step 3: Pick the actuation material based on suitability to your challenge
Step 4: Design in detail multiple combinations of body and brain
Step 5: Simulate, build, test, fail, and repeat this often and quickly until the soft robot works for simple settings
Step 6: Upgrade and validate the robot for a suitable performance under real-world conditions

Learning Objective 4: Rethink robotic approaches by moving towards designs made of living materials
Step 1: Identify what problems could be easier to solve with a complex living material
Step 2: Scout for available works that have potentially tackled the problem with a living material
Step 3: Formulate a hypothesis for your new approach with a living material
Step 4: Design a minimum viable prototype (MVP) that suitably highlights your new approach
ContentStudents will learn about the latest research advances in material technologies, fabrication, modeling, and machine learning to design, simulate, build, and control soft and biohybrid robots.

Part 1: Functional and intelligent materials for use in soft and biohybrid robotic applications
Part 2: Design and design morphologies of soft robotic actuators and sensors
Part 3: Fabrication techniques including 3D printing, casting, roll-to-roll, tissue engineering
Part 4: Biohybrid robotics including microrobots and macrorobots; tissue engineering
Part 5: Mechanical modeling including minimal parameter models, finite-element models, and ML-based models
Part 6: Closed-loop controllers of soft robots that exploit the robot's impedance and dynamics for locomotion and manipulation tasks
Part 7: Machine Learning approaches to soft robotics, for design synthesis, modeling, and control

Regular assignments throughout the semester will teach the participants to implement the skills and knowledge learned during the class.
Lecture notesAll class materials including slides, recordings, assignments, pre-reads, and tutorials can be found on the Moodle page of the class.
Literature1) Yasa et al. "An Overview of Soft Robotics." Annu. Rev. Control Robot. Auton. Syst. (2023). 6:1–29.
2) Polygerinos et al. "Soft robotics: Review of fluid‐driven intrinsically soft devices; manufacturing, sensing, control, and applications in human‐robot interaction." Advanced Engineering Materials 19.12 (2017): 1700016.
3) Cianchetti, et al. "Biomedical applications of soft robotics." Nature Reviews Materials 3.6 (2018): 143-153.
4) Ricotti et al. "Biohybrid actuators for robotics: A review of devices actuated by living cells." Science Robotics 2.12 (2017).
5) Sun et al. "Biohybrid robotics with living cell actuation." Chemical Society Reviews 49.12 (2020): 4043-4069.
Prerequisites / Notice- Prerequesites are dynamics, controls, and intro to robotics.
- Only for students at master or PhD level.
- Due to the limited places, the priority goes first to students from the Robotics, Systems and Control Master and second to the other study programs where the course is offered.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Cooperation and Teamworkassessed
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
151-0641-00LIntroduction to Robotics and Mechatronics Information Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 60.

Enrollment is only valid through registration on the MSRL website (www.msrl.ethz.ch). Registrations per e-mail is no longer accepted!
W4 credits2V + 2UB. Nelson, Q. Boehler, J. Lussi
AbstractThe aim of this lecture is to expose students to the fundamentals of mechatronic and robotic systems. Over the course of these lectures, topics will include how to interface a computer with the real world, different types of sensors and their use, different types of actuators and their use.
Learning objectiveAn ever-increasing number of mechatronic systems are finding their way into our daily lives. Mechatronic systems synergistically combine computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Robotics systems can be viewed as a subset of mechatronics that focuses on sophisticated control of moving devices.

The aim of this course is to practically and theoretically expose students to the fundamentals of mechatronic and robotic systems. Over the course of the semester, the lecture topics will include an overview of robotics, an introduction to different types of sensors and their use, the programming of microcontrollers and interfacing these embedded computers with the real world, signal filtering and processing, an introduction to different types of actuators and their use, an overview of computer vision, and forward and inverse kinematics. Throughout the course, students will periodically attend laboratory sessions and implement lessons learned during lectures on real mechatronic systems. By the end of the course, you will be able to independently choose, design and integrate these different building blocks into a working mechatronic system.
ContentThe course consists of weekly lectures and lab sessions. The weekly topics are the following:
0. Course Introduction
1. C Programming
2. Sensors
3. Data Acquisition
4. Signal Processing
5. Digital Filtering
6. Actuators
7. Computer Vision and Kinematics
8. Modeling and Control
9. Review and Outlook

The lecture schedule can be found on our course page on the MSRL website (www.msrl.ethz.ch)
Prerequisites / NoticeThe students are expected to be familiar with C programming.
151-8102-00LResearch Beyond the Lab: Open Science and Research Methods for a Global Engineer Information Restricted registration - show details
Does not take place this semester.
W4 credits3GE. Tilley
AbstractFrom the proverbial 'field' to the heart of Zurich, engineering research is guided by the same fundamental principles. With the goal to improve the human condition with technology, we designed this course to teach learners how to conduct a research project out of the lab, and apply open science principles to their data analysis projects.
Learning objectiveBy the end of the course, learners will be able to:

• articulate a foundational understanding of 'research'
• identify and implement an appropriate research paradigm for a given study
• identify the importance of, and challenges related to research ethics
• create a SMART research question
• articulate appropriate research aims and objectives for specific questions
• create survey questions using a variety of question types and understand the limitations and uses for each type of survey question
• apply 12 principles for data organisation in spreadsheets in the layout of a collected dataset
• clone a repository from GitHub into the RStudio Cloud and can use the RStudio IDE to commit and push changes to GitHub
• create a repository on GitHub and start a new R Project using the RStudio IDE in the RStudio Cloud
• can use three different ways of getting support in solving coding problems online
• can apply 10 functions from the dplyr R Package to generate a subset of data for use in a table or plot
• use GitHub to publish their Course project report as a website
• can use exported references from Zotero in Better BibTex Format to generate an automated reference list
• cross-reference figures and tables within an R Markdown file
ContentOver the course of the semester, students will develop a research project and learn the necessary qualitative and quantitative methods required to collect data from people. We will use tidyverse R packages to work with data, and git and GitHub as tools for version control and collaboration. By the end of the course, students will have a complete overview of how a typical field-based research project is designed, implemented and communicated.

Content will be delivered through lectures and tutorials. The success of the course will depend on the student's own willingness to engage with local challenges, stakeholders, citizens and agencies in order to develop a comprehensive body of work that answers a relevant, local problem.

Topics covered include:

• Theory and foundations of field-based Research
• Research Ethics: your role as a researcher, data privacy, ethical approval processes
• Qualitative and Quantitative research methods
• Research Design and implications for analysis
• Data Collection using digital tools
• Version control and collaboration with git and GitHub
• Exploratory analysis with tidyverse R packages for data visualisation and communication
• Concept of tidy data and tidyverse R packages for data transformation
Lecture notesDistributed during the course.
Prerequisites / NoticeThis course does not have any specific prerequisites. No prior experience of working with a programming language is required, nor do we expect statistical knowledge beyond basic summary statistics taught in high school environments.

Note on accessibility: Although there are 2 weeks of data collection outside of the classroom, we do not want this, or any other component of the hybrid-style course to be a barrier to anyone who is interested in enrolling. If you have a specific concern about your ability to participate, please contact us, so we can discuss strategies to ensure that you are included.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesTechniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
151-0946-00LMacromolecular Engineering: Networks and GelsW4 credits4GM. Tibbitt
AbstractThis 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.
Learning objectiveThe 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 notesClass notes and handouts.
LiteraturePolymer Physics by M. Rubinstein and R.H. Colby; samplings from other texts.
Prerequisites / NoticePhysics I+II, Thermodynamics I+II
151-0980-00LBiofluiddynamicsW4 credits2V + 1UD. Obrist, P. Jenny
AbstractIntroduction to the fluid dynamics of the human body and the modeling of physiological flow processes (biomedical fluid dynamics).
Learning objectiveA basic understanding of fluid dynamical processes in the human body. Knowledge of the basic concepts of fluid dynamics and the ability to apply these concepts appropriately.
ContentThis lecture is an introduction to the fluid dynamics of the human body (biomedical fluid dynamics). For selected topics of human physiology, we introduce fundamental concepts of fluid dynamics (e.g., creeping flow, incompressible flow, flow in porous media, flow with particles, fluid-structure interaction) and use them to model physiological flow processes. The list of studied topics includes the cardiovascular system and related diseases, blood rheology, microcirculation, respiratory fluid dynamics and fluid dynamics of the inner ear.
Lecture notesLecture notes are provided electronically.
LiteratureA list of books on selected topics of biofluiddynamics can be found on the course web page.
227-0455-00LTerahertz: Technology and Applications
Does not take place this semester.
W5 credits3G + 3A
AbstractThis block course will provide a solid foundation for understanding physical principles of THz applications. We will discuss various building blocks of THz technology - components dealing with generation, manipulation, and detection of THz electromagnetic radiation. We will introduce THz applications in the domain of imaging, sensing, communications, non-destructive testing and evaluations.
Learning objectiveThis is an introductory course on Terahertz (THz) technology and applications. Devices operating in THz frequency range (0.1 to 10 THz) have been increasingly studied in the recent years. Progress in nonlinear optical materials, ultrafast optical and electronic techniques has strengthened research in THz application developments. Due to unique interaction of THz waves with materials, applications with new capabilities can be developed. In theory, they can penetrate somewhat like X-rays, but are not considered harmful radiation, because THz energy level is low. They should be able to provide resolution as good as or better than magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), possibly with simpler equipment. Imaging, very-high bandwidth communication, and energy harvesting are the most widely explored THz application areas. We will study the basics of THz generation, manipulation, and detection. Our emphasis will be on the physical principles and applications of THz in the domain of imaging, sensing, communications, non-destructive testing and evaluations.

The second part of the block course will be a short project work related to the topics covered in the lecture. The learnings from the project work should be presented in the end.
ContentPART I:

- INTRODUCTION -
Chapter 1: Introduction to THz Physics
Chapter 2: Components of THz Technology

- THz TECHNOLOGY MODULES -
Chapter 3: THz Generation
Chapter 4: THz Detection
Chapter 5: THz Manipulation

- APPLICATIONS -
Chapter 6: THz Imaging / Sensing / Communication
Chapter 7: THz Non-destructive Testing
Chapter 8: THz Applications in Plastic & Recycling Industries

PART 2:

- PROJECT WORK -
Short project work related to the topics covered in the lecture.
Short presentation of the learnings from the project work.
Full guidance and supervision will be given for successful completion of the short project work.
Lecture notesSoft-copy of lectures notes will be provided.
Literature- Yun-Shik Lee, Principles of Terahertz Science and Technology, Springer 2009
- Ali Rostami, Hassan Rasooli, and Hamed Baghban, Terahertz Technology: Fundamentals and Applications, Springer 2010
Prerequisites / NoticeBasic foundation in physics, particularly, electromagnetics is required.
Students who want to refresh their electromagnetics fundamentals can get additional material required for the course.
227-0946-00LMolecular Imaging - Basic Principles and Biomedical ApplicationsW3 credits2V + 1AD. Razansky
AbstractConcept: What is molecular imaging.
Discussion/comparison of the various imaging modalities used in molecular imaging.
Design of target specific probes: specificity, delivery, amplification strategies.
Biomedical Applications.
Learning objectiveMolecular Imaging is a rapidly emerging discipline that translates concepts developed in molecular biology and cellular imaging to in vivo imaging in animals and ultimatly in humans. Molecular imaging techniques allow the study of molecular events in the full biological context of an intact organism and will therefore become an indispensable tool for biomedical research.
ContentConcept: What is molecular imaging.
Discussion/comparison of the various imaging modalities used in molecular imaging.
Design of target specific probes: specificity, delivery, amplification strategies.
Biomedical Applications.
227-0948-00LMagnetic Resonance Imaging in MedicineW4 credits3GS. Kozerke, M. Weiger Senften
AbstractIntroduction to magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy, encoding and contrast mechanisms and their application in medicine.
Learning objectiveUnderstand the basic principles of signal generation, image encoding and decoding, contrast manipulation and the application thereof to assess anatomical and functional information in-vivo.
ContentIntroduction to magnetic resonance imaging including basic phenomena of nuclear magnetic resonance; 2- and 3-dimensional imaging procedures; fast and parallel imaging techniques; image reconstruction; pulse sequences and image contrast manipulation; equipment; advanced techniques for identifying activated brain areas; perfusion and flow; diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tracking; contrast agents; localized magnetic resonance spectroscopy and spectroscopic imaging; diagnostic applications and applications in research.
Lecture notesD. Meier, P. Boesiger, S. Kozerke
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Spectroscopy
376-1178-00LHuman Factors IIW3 credits2VM. Menozzi Jäckli, R. Huang
AbstractStrategies, abilities and needs of human at work as well as properties of products and systems are factors controlling quality and performance in everyday interactions. In Human Factors II (HF II), cognitive aspects are in focus therefore complementing the more physical oriented approach in HF I. A basic scientific approach is adopted and relevant links to practice are illustrated.
Learning objectiveThe goal of the lecture is to empower students in designing products and systems enabling an efficient and qualitatively high standing interaction between human and the environment, considering costs, benefits, health, well-being, and safety as well. The goal is achieved in addressing a broad variety of topics and embedding the discussion in macroscopic factors such as the behavior of consumers and objectives of economy.
ContentCognitive factors in perception, information processing and action. Experimental techniques in assessing human performance and well-being, human factors and ergonomics in development of products and complex systems, innovation, decision taking, consumer behavior and user experience.
Literature- Salvendy G. (ed), Handbook of Human Factors, Wiley & Sons, 2012
- Stanton N.A. et al., Cognitive Work Analysis, CRC Press, 2017
- Further textbooks are introduced in the lecture
376-1217-00LRehabilitation Engineering I: Motor FunctionsW4 credits2V + 1UR. Riener, C. E. Awai
Abstract“Rehabilitation” is the (re)integration of an individual with a disability into society. Rehabilitation engineering is “the application of science and technology to ameliorate the handicaps of individuals with disability”. Such handicaps can be classified into motor, sensor, and cognitive disabilities. In general, one can distinguish orthotic and prosthetic methods to overcome these disabilities.
Learning objectiveThe goal of this course is to present classical and new technical principles as well as specific examples applied to compensate or enhance motor deficits. In the 1 h exercise the students will learn how to solve representative problems with computational methods applied to exoprosthetics, wheelchair dynamics, rehabilitation robotics and neuroprosthetics.
ContentModern methods rely more and more on the application of multi-modal and interactive techniques. Multi-modal means that visual, acoustical, tactile, and kinaesthetic sensor channels are exploited to display information to the patient. Interaction means that the exchange of information and energy occurs bi-directionally between the rehabilitation device and the human being. Thus, the device cooperates with the patient rather than imposing an inflexible strategy (e.g., movement) upon the patient. These principles are recurrent in modern technological tools to support rehabilitation, including prosthesis, orthoses, powered exoskeletons, powered wheelchairs, therapy robots and virtual reality systems.
LiteratureBooks:

Burdet, Etienne, David W. Franklin, and Theodore E. Milner. Human robotics: neuromechanics and motor control. MIT press, 2013.

Krakauer, John W., and S. Thomas Carmichael. Broken movement: the neurobiology of motor recovery after stroke. MIT Press, 2017.

Teodorescu, Horia-Nicolai L., and Lakhmi C. Jain, eds. Intelligent systems and technologies in rehabilitation engineering. CRC press, 2000.

Winters, Jack M., and Patrick E. Crago, eds. Biomechanics and neural control of posture and movement. Springer Science & Business Media, 2012.

Selected Journal Articles:

Abbas, James J., and Robert Riener. "Using mathematical models and advanced control systems techniques to enhance neuroprosthesis function." Neuromodulation: Technology at the Neural Interface 4.4 (2001): 187-195.

Basalp, Ekin, Peter Wolf, and Laura Marchal-Crespo. "Haptic training: which types facilitate (re) learning of which motor task and for whom Answers by a review." IEEE Transactions on Haptics (2021).

Calabrò, Rocco Salvatore, et al. "Robotic gait rehabilitation and substitution devices in neurological disorders: where are we now?." Neurological Sciences 37.4 (2016): 503-514.

Cooper, R. (1993) Stability of a wheelchair controlled by a human. IEEE Transactions on Rehabilitation Engineering 1, pp. 193-206.

Gassert, Roger, and Volker Dietz. "Rehabilitation robots for the treatment of sensorimotor deficits: a neurophysiological perspective." Journal of neuroengineering and rehabilitation 15.1 (2018): 1-15.

Laver, Kate E., et al. "Virtual reality for stroke rehabilitation." Cochrane database of systematic reviews 11 (2017).

Marquez-Chin, Cesar, and Milos R. Popovic. "Functional electrical stimulation therapy for restoration of motor function after spinal cord injury and stroke: a review." Biomedical engineering online 19 (2020): 1-25.

Miller, Larry E., Angela K. Zimmermann, and William G. Herbert. "Clinical effectiveness and safety of powered exoskeleton-assisted walking in patients with spinal cord injury: systematic review with meta-analysis." Medical devices (Auckland, NZ) 9 (2016): 455.

Raspopovic, Stanisa. "Advancing limb neural prostheses." Science 370.6514 (2020): 290-291.

Riener, R. (2013) Rehabilitation Robotics. Foundations and Trends in Robotics, Vol. 3, nos. 1-2, pp. 1-137.

Riener, R., Lünenburger, L., Maier, I. C., Colombo, G., & Dietz, V. (2010). Locomotor training in subjects with sensori-motor deficits: An overview of the robotic gait orthosis Lokomat. Journal of Healthcare Engineering, 1(2), 197-216.

Riener, R., Nef, T., Colombo, G. (2005) Robot-aided neurorehabilitation for the upper extremities. Medical & Biological Engineering & Computing 43(1), pp. 2-10.

Sigrist, Roland, et al. "Augmented visual, auditory, haptic, and multimodal feedback in motor learning: a review." Psychonomic bulletin & review 20.1 (2013): 21-53.

Xiloyannis, Michele, et al. "Soft Robotic Suits: State of the Art, Core Technologies, and Open Challenges." IEEE Transactions on Robotics (2021).
Prerequisites / NoticeTarget Group:
Students of higher semesters and PhD students of
- D-MAVT, D-ITET, D-INFK
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Faculty, University of Zurich
Students of other departments, faculties, courses are also welcome
376-1308-00LDevelopment Strategies for Medical Implants Restricted registration - show details W3 credits2V + 1UJ. Mayer-Spetzler, N. Mathavan
AbstractIntroduction to development strategies for implantable devices considering the interdependencies of biocompatibility, clinical, regulatory, and economical requirements; discussion of state of the art and actual trends in orthopedics, sports medicine, cardiovascular surgery, and regenerative medicine (tissue engineering).
Learning objectivePrimary considerations in implant development.
Concept of structural and surface biocompatibility and its relevance for implant design and surgical technique.
Understanding conflicting factors, e.g., clinical need, economics, and regulatory requirements.
Tissue engineering concepts, their strengths, and weaknesses as current and future clinical solutions.
ContentUnderstanding of clinical and economic needs as guidelines for the development of medical implants; implant and implantation-related tissue reactions, biocompatible materials, and material processing technologies; implant testing and regulatory procedures; discussion of state-of-the-art and actual trends in implant development in sports medicine, spinal and cardio-vascular surgery; introduction to tissue engineering. Commented movies from surgeries will further illustrate selected topics.

Seminar:
Group seminars on selected controversial topics in implant development. Participation is mandatory.

Planned excursions (limited availability, not mandatory, to be confirmed): Participation (as a visitor) in a life surgery (travel at own expense)
Lecture notesScript (electronically available):
- presented slides
- selected scientific papers for further reading
LiteratureReference to key papers will be provided during the lectures.
Prerequisites / NoticeOnly Master's students; achieved Bachelor's degree is a pre-condition

Admission to the lecture is based on a letter of motivation to the lecturer J. Mayer. The number of participants in the course is limited to 30 students in total.

Students will be exposed to surgical movies which may cause emotional reactions. The viewing of the surgical movies is voluntary and is the student's responsibility.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationassessed
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingfostered
376-1392-00LMechanobiology: Implications for Development, Regeneration and Tissue EngineeringW4 credits2GG. Shivashankar
AbstractThis course will emphasize the importance of mechanobiology to cell determination and behavior. Its importance to regenerative medicine and tissue engineering will also be addressed. Finally, this course will discuss how age and disease adversely alter major mechanosensitive developmental programs.
Learning objectiveThe goal of this course is to provide an introduction to the emerging field of “Mechanobiology”.
ContentWe will focus on cells and tissues and introduce the major methods employed in uncovering the principles of mechanobiology. We will first discuss the cellular mechanotransduction mechanisms and how they regulate genomes. This will be followed by an analysis of the mechanobiological underpinnings of cellular differentiation, cell-state transitions and homeostasis. Developing on this understanding, we will then introduce the mechanobiological basis of cellular ageing and its impact on tissue regeneration, including neurodegeneration and musculoskeletal systems. We will then highlight the importance of tissue organoid models as routes to regenerative medicine. We will also discuss the impact of mechanobiology on host-pathogen interactions. Finally, we will introduce the broad area of mechanopathology and the development of cell-state biomarkers as readouts of tissue homeostasis and disease pathologies. Collectively, the course will provide a quantitate framework to understand the mechanobiological processes at cellular scale and how they intersect with tissue function and diseases.

Lecture 1: Introduction to the course: forces, signalling and cell behaviour
Lecture 2: Methods to engineer and sense mechanobiological processes
Lecture 3: Mechanisms of cellular mechanosensing and cytoskeletal remodelling
Lecture 4: Nuclear mechanotransduction pathways
Lecture 5: Genome organization, regulation and genome integrity
Lecture 6: Differentiation, development and reprogramming
Lecture 7: Tissue microenvironment, cell behaviour and homeostasis
Lecture 8: Cellular aging and tissue regeneration
Lecture 9: Neurodegeneration and regeneration
Lecture 10: Musculoskeletal systems and regeneration
Lecture 11: Tissue organoid models and regenerative medicine
Lecture 12: Microbial systems and host-pathogen interactions
Lecture13: Mechanopathology and cell-state biomarkers
Lecture14: Concluding lecture and case studies
Lecture notesn/a
LiteratureTopical Scientific Manuscripts
376-1397-00LOrthopaedic Biomechanics Information Restricted registration - show details W3 credits2GR. Müller, J. Schwiedrzik
AbstractThis course is aimed at studying the mechanical and structural engineering of the musculoskeletal system alongside the analysis and design of orthopaedic solutions to musculoskeletal failure.
Learning objectiveTo apply engineering and design principles to orthopaedic biomechanics, to quantitatively assess the musculoskeletal system and model it, and to review rigid-body dynamics in an interesting context.
ContentEngineering principles are very important in the development and application of quantitative approaches in biology and medicine. This course includes a general introduction to structure and function of the musculoskeletal system: anatomy and physiology of musculoskeletal tissues and joints; biomechanical methods to assess and quantify tissues and large joint systems. These methods will also be applied to musculoskeletal failure, joint replacement and reconstruction; implants; biomaterials and tissue engineering.
Lecture notesStored on Moodle.
LiteratureOrthopaedic Biomechanics:
Mechanics and Design in Musculoskeletal Systems

Authors: Donald L. Bartel, Dwight T. Davy, Tony M. Keaveny
Publisher: Prentice Hall; Copyright: 2007
ISBN-10: 0130089095; ISBN-13: 9780130089090
Prerequisites / NoticeLectures will be given in English.
376-1614-00LPrinciples in Tissue EngineeringW3 credits2VK. Maniura, M. Rottmar, M. Zenobi-Wong
AbstractFundamentals in blood coagulation; thrombosis, blood rheology, immune system, inflammation, foreign body reaction on the molecular level and the entire body are discussed. Applications of biomaterials for tissue engineering in different tissues are introduced. Fundamentals in medical implantology, in situ drug release, cell transplantation and stem cell biology are discussed.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding of molecular aspects for the application of biodegradable and biocompatible Materials. Fundamentals of tissue reactions (eg. immune responses) against implants and possible clinical consequences will be discussed.
ContentThis class continues with applications of biomaterials and devices introduced in Biocompatible Materials I. Fundamentals in blood coagulation; thrombosis, blood rheology; immune system, inflammation, foreign body reaction on the level of the entire body and on the molecular level are introduced. Applications of biomaterials for tissue engineering in the vascular system, skeletal muscle, heart muscle, tendons and ligaments, bone, teeth, nerve and brain, and drug delivery systems are introduced. Fundamentals in medical implantology, in situ drug release, cell transplantation and stem cell biology are discussed.
Lecture notesHandouts provided during the classes and references therin.
LiteratureThe molecular Biology of the Cell, Alberts et al., 5th Edition, 2009.
Principles in Tissue Engineering, Langer et al., 2nd Edition, 2002
376-1721-00LBone Biology and Consequences for Human HealthW2 credits2VG. A. Kuhn, J. Goldhahn, E. Wehrle
AbstractBone is a complex tissue that continuously adapts to mechanical and metabolic demands. Failure of this remodeling results in reduced mechanic stability ot the skeleton. This course will provide the basic knowledge to understand the biology and pathophysiology of bone necessary for engineering of bone tissue and design of implants.
Learning objectiveAfter completing this course, students will be able to understand:
a) the biological and mechanical aspects of normal bone remodeling
b) pathological changes and their consequences for the musculoskeletal system
c) the consequences for implant design, tissue engineering and treatment interventions.
ContentBone adapts continuously to mechanical and metabolic demands by complex remodeling processes. This course will deal with biological processes in bone tissue from cell to tissue level. This lecture will cover mechanisms of bone building (anabolic side), bone resorption (catabolic side), their coupling, and regulation mechanisms. It will also cover pathological changes and typical diseases like osteoporosis. Consequences for musculoskeletal health and their clinical relevance will be discussed. Requirements for tissue engineering as well as implant modification will be presented. Actual examples from research and development will be utilized for illustration.
376-1984-00LLasers in Medicine
Does not take place this semester.
W3 credits3G
AbstractThe lecture will provide answers to questions such as: Why lasers? How do lasers work? How does light interact with tissue? We will concentrate on three major interaction categories: Therapeutic (from cell surgery to vision correction and general surgery), Diagnostics (from detection of neural cell activity to diagnostics of cancer), and Imaging (from single molecules to optical tomography).
Learning objectiveKnowledge about the physical principles of a laser. You know the properties of laser light and how they can be used for medical applications. You understand the physical principles underlyingthe light-tissue interaction. You can explain what resolution, contrast and magnification means. You are able to order the right safety google for your laser system. You are able to determine the optimum laser parameters for a specific clinical application.
ContentLasers become increasingly important in almost all medical disciplines especially where they can be used selectively to treat soft and hard tissue in a non-invasive manner or for diagnostic purposes. Basic mechanisms of light propagation in tissue as well as laser-tissue-interactions i.e. photochemical, photothermal and photomechanical interaction will be discussed. The influence of laser wavelength and pulse duration on the interaction process will be studied. Different laser and beam delivery systems used in medicine will be presented. Different clinical laser applications in ophthalmology, urology, gynecology and ENT-surgery will be discussed. Diagnostic applications as well as biomedical imaging techniques are considered. Laser safety.
Lecture noteswill be published in the Internet (ILIAS)
Literature- M. Born, E. Wolf, "Principles of Optics", Pergamon Press
- B.E.A. Saleh, M.C. Teich, "Fundamentals of Photonics", John Wiley and Sons, Inc.
- A.E. Siegman, "Lasers", University Science Books
- O. Svelto, "Principles of Lasers", Plenum Press
- J. Eichler, T. Seiler, "Lasertechnik in der Medizin", Springer Verlag
- M.H. Niemz, "Laser-Tissue Interaction", Springer Verlag
- A.J. Welch, M.J.C. van Gemert, "Optical-thermal response of laser-irradiated
tissue", Plenum Press
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
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