VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Microrobotics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:16:32
Abstract
Microrobotics is an interdisciplinary field that combines aspects of robotics, micro and nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and materials science. The aim of this course is to expose students to the fundamentals of this emerging field. Throughout the course, the students apply these concepts in assignments. The course concludes with an end-of-semester examination.
Objective
The objective of this course is to expose students to the fundamental aspects of the emerging field of microrobotics. This includes a focus on physical laws that predominate at the microscale, technologies for fabricating small devices, bio-inspired design, and applications of the field.
Content
Main topics of the course include: - Scaling laws at micro/nano scales - Electrostatics - Electromagnetism - Low Reynolds number flows - Observation tools - Materials and fabrication methods - Applications of biomedical microrobots
Resources
Lecture Notes
The powerpoint slides presented in the lectures will be made available as pdf files. Several readings will also be made available electronically.
Learning Materials (Links)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , DR , MSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
- Mode
- written 90 minutes
- Aids
- None
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Microrobotics
The class starts in the second week.
|
|
3 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
-
-
Mechatronics and Robotics (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Marco Hutter)
-
Microsystems and Nanoscale Engineering (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Christofer Hierold)
-
Engineering for Health (Focus Coordinator: Prof. Bradley Nelson)
-
-
-
-
-
-
Robotics, Systems and Control (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
-
Micro & Nanosystems (The courses listed in this category “Core Courses” are recommended. Alternative courses can be chosen in agreement with the tutor.)
-
-
-
-
-
-
Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Biomechanics track. Please consult your track advisor if you wish to select other subjects.)
-
-
-
Track Core Courses (During the Master programme, a minimum of 12 CP must be obtained from track core courses.)
-
-
-
Recommended Elective Courses (These courses are particularly recommended for the Molecular Bioengineering track. Please consult your track advisor if you wish to select other subjects.)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Electives (376-1622-00L Practical Methods in Tissue Engineering (offered in the Autumn Semester) and 376-1624-00L Practical Methods in Biofabrication (offered in the Spring Semester) are mutually exclusive to be eligible for credits.)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Doctorate Materials Science (Further information at: )
-
-
-