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151-0980-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC , NDS D-BSSE , D-MAVT , D-INFK , D-PHYS , D-MATH , D-ITET , D-MATL , D-HEST
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Biofluiddynamics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Patrick Jenny, Prof. Dr. Dominik Obrist
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:03

Abstract

Introduction to the fluid dynamics of the human body and the modeling of physiological flow processes (biomedical fluid dynamics).

Objective

A 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.

Content

This 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.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes are provided electronically.

Literature

A list of books on selected topics of biofluiddynamics can be found on the course web page.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , DR , MSC , NDS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 120 minutes
Aids
8 pages summarycalculator (without internet connection)
In addition to the final written examination, there is one compulsory continuous performance assessment with a pass/fail criteria. The compulsory continuous performance assessment consists of an extended homework assignment which is based on a MATLAB simulation of blood flow in the microcirculation. To pass this assessment, the students must submit an optimized network configuration which enhances oxygen supply to the tissue.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Biofluiddynamics
  • Fri 10:15-12:00 (HG E 1.2)
2 h weekly
exercise Biofluiddynamics
  • Fri 12:15-13:00 (HG E 1.2)
1 h weekly

Offered In