VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Physical Modelling and Simulation
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:43
Abstract
This module consists of (a) an introduction to fundamental equations of electromagnetics, mechanics and heat transfer, (b) a detailed overview of numerical methods for field simulations, and (c) practical examples solved in form of small projects.
Objective
Basic knowledge of the fundamental equations and effects of electromagnetics, mechanics, and heat transfer. Knowledge of the main concepts of numerical methods for physical modelling and simulation. Ability (a) to develop own simple field simulation programs, (b) to select an appropriate field solver for a given problem, (c) to perform field simulations, (d) to evaluate the obtained results, and (e) to interactively improve the models until sufficiently accurate results are obtained.
Content
The module begins with an introduction to the fundamental equations and effects of electromagnetics, mechanics, and heat transfer. After the introduction follows a detailed overview of the available numerical methods for solving electromagnetic, thermal and mechanical boundary value problems. This part of the course contains a general introduction into numerical methods, differential and integral forms, linear equation systems, Finite Difference Method (FDM), Boundary Element Method (BEM), Method of Moments (MoM), Multiple Multipole Program (MMP) and Finite Element Method (FEM). The theoretical part of the course finishes with a presentation of multiphysics simulations through several practical examples of HF-engineering such as coupled electromagnetic-mechanical and electromagnetic-thermal analysis of MEMS. In the second part of the course the students will work in small groups on practical simulation problems. For solving practical problems the students can develop and use own simulation programs or chose an appropriate commercial field solver for their specific problem. This practical simulation work of the students is supervised by the lecturers.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Physical Modelling and Simulation |
|
4 h weekly |
Offered In
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Wahlfächer der Vertiefung (Diese Fächer sind für die Vertiefung in Bioimaging besonders empfohlen. Bei abweichender Fächerwahl konsultieren Sie bitte den Track Adviser.)
-
-
-
Wahlfächer der Vertiefung (Diese Fächer sind für die Vertiefung in Bioelectronics besonders empfohlen. Bei abweichender Fächerwahl konsultieren Sie bitte den Track Adviser.)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Vertiefung: Electronics and Photonics (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Electronics and Photonics", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
Vertiefungsfächer (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Electronics and Photonics", but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. Semester / Research Projects are not allowed in this category. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
-
-
Vertiefung: Biomedical Engineering (The core courses and specialisation courses below are a selection for students who wish to specialise in the area of "Biomedical Engineering", see . The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
-
Vertiefungsfächer (These specialisation courses are particularly recommended for the area of "Biomedical Engineering" but you are free to choose courses from any other field in agreement with your tutor. Semester / Research Projects are not allowed in this category. A minimum of 40 credits must be obtained from specialisation courses during the Master's Programme.)
-
-
-