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151-0573-00L 4 Credits BSC , MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT , D-INFK

System Modeling

Lecturers: Prof. em. Dr. Lino Guzzella

Examiners: Prof. Dr. Christopher Onder

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:02:05

Abstract

Introduction to system modeling for control. Generic modeling approaches based on first principles, Lagrangian formalism, energy approaches and experimental data. Model parametrization and parameter estimation. Basic analysis of linear and nonlinear systems.

Objective

Learn how to mathematically describe a physical system or a process in the form of a model usable for analysis and control purposes.

Content

This class introduces generic system-modeling approaches for control-oriented models based on first principles and experimental data. The class will span numerous examples related to mechatronic, thermodynamic, chemistry, fluid dynamic, energy, and process engineering systems. Model scaling, linearization, order reduction, and balancing. Parameter estimation with least-squares methods. Various case studies: loud-speaker, turbines, water-propelled rocket, geostationary satellites, etc. The exercises address practical examples.

Resources

Lecture Notes

The handouts in English will be available in digital form.

Literature

A list of references is included in the handouts.

Learning Materials (Links)

Main link
Course website

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: written 135 minutes
Aids: 40 A4 pages (20 A4 sheets of paper); no additional aids (no calculators, smart phones, etc.)

This course will be offered for the last time in the Autumn Semester 2022. The examination can be taken/repeated for the last time in the Summer Session 2023.

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	System Modeling Der Kurs wird zum letzten Mal im HS22 angeboten.	Wed 08:15-10:00 (HG E 7)	2 h weekly
exercise	System Modeling Groups are selected in myStudies. Der Kurs wird zum letzten Mal im HS22 angeboten. Die Übungen finden ab der zweiten Semesterwoche statt. Di 13-14, Di 17-18 oder Do 8-9 gemäss Gruppeneinteilung.	Tue 13:15-14:00 (LFV E 41) Tue 13:15-14:00 (LFW C 5) Tue 17:15-18:00 (CHN G 46) Tue 17:15-18:00 (HG D 1.1) Thu 08:15-09:00 (HG E 1.1) Thu 08:15-09:00 (LFV E 41)	1 h weekly

Offered In

Mechanical Engineering Bachelor
- Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2010)
  - Electives
Computer Science Bachelor
- Minor Courses
  - Minor Courses
Mechanical Engineering Master
- Core Courses
  - Mechanics, Materials, Structures (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
  - Robotics, Systems and Control (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2018)
  - Systems and Control (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Systems and Control", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Specialisation Courses (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Systems and Control", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
- Master Studies (Programme Regulations 2008)
  - Major Courses (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Programme. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Systems and Control
      - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)