• Course title: Concrete Structures
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MCES-1
• Module(s): Concrete Structures
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

This course aims to provide advanced knowledge on the design and assessment of concrete structures.

In the first part, design methodologies for serviceability and ultimate limit states are introduced. Serviceability designs are based on cracking and long term deformation, while stress fields and strut-and-tie methods are introduced for the ultimate designs.

In the second part, methods for examining existing structures are introduced. Assessment methods and deterioration mechanisms are presented. Monitoring techniques, and strengthening solutions with ultra-high performance techniques are also introduced.

In the third part, the sustainability assessment and design solutions are proposed to reduce the carbon footprint of concrete structures. 

The learning outcomes are majorly:1. The student is able to design concrete structures based on advanced deisgn methodologies for both the serviceability and ultimate limit states. 2. The student knows how to calculate stresses, resistances, deformations of conventional concrete elements.3. The Student can assess the structural safety of an existing structure accurately. He knows conventional methodology to visually assess existing structural elements as well as calculated their reliability. 4. The student knows the benefits and limitations of monitoring techniques as well as strengthening solutions for existing concrete structures.5. The student is able to calculate the carbon footprint of a concrete structure and propose more sustainable solutions.

The course content includes:1. Introduction and reminder from bachelor courses2. Serviceability limit state design ( Tension stiffening, long term deformation)3. Ultimate limit state design (Strut and Tie method)4. Conceptual design of buildings5. Existing structure – Diagnostic (visual inspection and reliability analysis)6. Existing structure – Monitoring (Non-destructive tests, load testing)7. Existing structure – Strengthening (Ultra-high performance concrete)8. Sustainability of concrete structures

#FUNDAMENTAL COURSE:

– 2 attempts maximum

– The student must have obtained, under penalty of exclusion, a final grade higher than or equal to 10 points at the end of the fourth (4th) semester

 

#ASSESSMENT TASKS:

Written exam (100%):

Objectives: Show the ability to apply the learned analyzing- and calculation methods, which have been explained in the lecture and shown exemplarily in the tutorials.

Assessment rules: Hand-written exam. Allowed are calculator (non-programmable) and one teaching materials (with notes).

Assessment criteria: Obtained points in the exam.

Literature:EC2: Design of concrete structuresFIB Model Code 2010Fib Bulletin 100: Design and assessment withstrut-and-tie models and stress fields:from simple calculations to detailednumerical analysisMultiple peer-reviewed journal papers.

• Course title: Steel & Composite Structures 1 – High Rise Buildings
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MCES-2
• Module(s): Steel & Composite Structures 1 – High Rise Buildings
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The learning targets concern different types of steel and steel composite structures of multi-storey- and tall buildings. Light flooring construction types and special bracing structures for high-rise buildings in steel and steel composite structure are examined and analyzed.

Special calculation methods, like the determination of the Eigenfrequency of a building and important constructional rule, for example the combination of different bracing elements are investigated and explained.Different Methods of optimizing the different elements of the building structure – with the different target parameter like construction speed, simplicity of assembly, degree of prefabrication and reduction of steel tonnage is known. Especially the last point is important, which builds the basis for the later determination of greenhouse gas emissions and the judgement of the sustainability of the construction with limited resources.

The learning outcomes are majorly :1.  The student is able to propose different ways of constructing and analysing composite slab systems for high-rise buildings in steel and concrete,2. He knows how to prove the concerning load bearing capacity. 3. The student can propose different methods to brace high-rise buildings and he is able to calculate the lateral stability of the bracing system,4.  The student is able to draft different structural systems for wide span structures , to name assessment criteria and to judge the respective advantages and disadvantages concerning load bearing capacity and displacement behaviour,5.  The student is able to draft and design a standard bridge with the special required proofs of fatigue for the steel details.

High Rise Buildings in Steel and Concrete Composite Structure·         Introduction·         Exemplification of worldwide well known buildings·         Flooring Systems in steel-composite structure·         Impacts on high rise systems·         Bracing systems·         Structural analysis·         Sustainability, Circular Economy and Reusable Systems

#FUNDAMENTAL COURSE:

– 2 attempts maximum

– The student must have obtained, under penalty of exclusion, a final grade higher than or equal to 10 points at the end of the fourth (4th) semester

 

#ASSESSMENT TASKS:

Task 1 –  Active participation

Objectives: Participation in the lectures and workshops

 

Task 2 –  Take-home assignment  10 %

Objectives: Group Work with final report about a selected high rise building. The student gets acquainted with the problems of high-rise buildings and learns, how these problems have been solved for one exemplary case.

Assessment rules: Group work with different parts for different students and visible separation of the parts.

Assessment criteria: Quality and plausibility of the developed solution concerning the points given in the task assignment.

 

Task 3 –  Presentation 10 %

Objectives: Learn to present and defend own findings in front of a small audience.

Assessment rules: The building of Task 2 is taken as basis. Group work with well visible separated parts, allocated to the different students.

Assessment criteria: Quality and plausibility of the developed solution concerning the points given in the task assignment

 

Task 4 –  Written exam 80 %

Objectives: Show the ability to apply the learned analyzing- and calculation methods, which have been explained in the lecture and shown exemplarily in the tutorials

Assessment rules: Hand-written exam. Allowed are calculator (non-programmable) and one hand-written sheet (written on both sides).

Assessment criteria: Obtained points in the exam

Literature list

– Own Script and Tutorial -EN 1992, -EN1993, -EN1994-L. Simoes da Silva, R. Simoes, H. Gervasio : Design of Steel Structures, ECCS Eurocode Design Manuals, Wiley Ernst und Sohn, Berlin, New York .-Bungale taranath; “Structural Analysis and Design of Tall Building”, CRC Press, Taylor and Francis Group, New York.- Bungale Taranath; “Wind and Earthquake Resistant Buildings”,-W.F. Chen, E.M. Lui; “Handbook of Structural Analysis and Design”; Taylor and Francis, Boca Raton, USA-Akbar Tamboli; “Tall and Supertall Buildings”, Mc Graw Hill Edication, New York-D. Dujmovic, B. Androic, I. Lukacevic: “Composite Strctures according to Eurocode 4”, Wiley Ernst und Sohn, Berlin

• Course title: Methods in Digital Building – BIM
• Number of ECTS: 4
• Course code: MCES-3
• Module(s): Methods in Digital Building – BIM
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

Discover what BIM is and how it works, from several point of view (architect, building company, owner…), get the practice as a civil Engineer in a BIM project by using specific tools to achieve usual required tasks.

Understand what BIM is and how it works.

Be able to use a BIM collaborative platform to exchange documents, 3D models and comments.

Understand how to create a structural 3D model with concrete reinforcement, how to add information in the objects and how to check the quality of the model.

Understand how works the quantity take off and the documentation generation.

BIM theory with practical application and several BIM use casesBasic on Revit and Structural toolsRebar modeling in Revit3D models coordination: Structure + architecture + MEP, methods, and toolsLayout and annotation in RevitInformation (data) management in a BIM model, mapping to IFC open format FileQuantity take-off in Revit with cost estimation

Task 1: 

  Written exam (30%)

Objectives: check if the student understands what BIM is and how it works, in general.

Assessment rules: each student must answer a bench of questions, based on theoretical knowledge or tool practicing. Each question will refer to a concept learned during the course, or a manipulation also done during the course. They won’t have access to lessons material.

Assessment criteria: for each good answer will get 1 point. Answers can’t be partially answered, so no possibility to get 0.5 point. 

Task 2:  

Written exam (70%)

Objectives: Create a project and apply the theory on several constraints (structural resistance, architectural design, MEP design, owner requests…). The student will have to use several BIM tools to achieve the project.

Assessment rules: Students will use the model created during the course and will have to modify it according to new requirements.

Assessment criteria:Create a structural concrete project based on an architectural model.3D structural model update after calculation in the Concrete structure course and coordination with the architectural model and the MEP model.Automatic quantity take-off with 2 different tools, and generation of a cost estimation document.

Literature:

Autodesk 2020 : Fundamentals of Structure, ASCENT

• Course title: Thin Walled Structures
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MCES-4
• Module(s): Thin Walled Structures
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

Students gain a solid grasp of linear continuum mechanics and how it underpins structural models. They delve into kinematical and dimensional reduction, which forms the basis for prevalent plate and beam models, including Reissner-Mindlin, Kirchhoff-Love, Timoshenko-Ehrenfest, and Euler-Bernoulli. They also confront and learn to overcome numerical challenges like shear-locking in plates and beams by employing suitable models. Additionally, they explore the complexities of curved three-dimensional shell models.

The students will be able to select the appropriate structural model for plane and curved thin-walled structures. They can perform the structural analysis of plane and curved thin-walled structures and are able to perform a critical interpretation of the resulting stress distribution and displacements.

Theory of plane thin-walled structures:                                                                                           1. Introduction to tensor algebra and calculus on Cartesian grids, as well as variational calculus, representing the mathematical foundation of continuum mechanics2. Linear elasticity is derived from the linearization of continuum mechanics for linear isotropic Saint-Venant–Kirchhoff materials                                                                                                     3. Kinematical and dimensional reduction is applied to retrieve structural models such as plates, beams and finally shells.The lecture expands on theoretical concepts by exploring various techniques to derive both exact and estimated solutions for the fundamental equations in forms of displacement and combined displacement/stress. This includes solving partial differential equations, employing the concept of virtual displacements and stresses for thin-walled structures, and utilizing ansatz functions for comprehensive and localized support, such as finite elements. Additionally, it examines the reliability and responsiveness of these solutions.

Written exam (100%)

#FUNDAMENTAL COURSE:

– 2 attempts maximum

– The student must have obtained, under penalty of exclusion, a final grade higher than or equal to 10 points at the end of the fourth (4th) semester

 

 

Literature & resources

•Timoshenko, Woinowsky-Krieger: Theory of plates and shells (McGraw-Hill) 
•Jawad: Theory and design of plate and shell structures (Chapman and Hall),•Reddy: Theory and analysis of elastic plates and shells (Taylor & Francis),•Ugural: Stresses in beams, plates and shells (CRC Press),•Marti: Theory of structures (Wiley),•Schafer: Computational Engineering – Introduction to Numerical Methods, Springer,•Itskov: Tensor Algebra and Tensor Analysis for Engineers, Springer,•Jeppe: Continuum Mechanics of Beam and Plate Flexure, Aalborg University.

In addition to above further reading material the students have access to lecture notes and software.

• Course title: Finite Element Analysis of Structures
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MCES-5
• Module(s): Finite Element Analysis of Structures
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

In this course, students gain an understanding of the finite element method, which is utilized to derive approximate solutions for the mathematical equations (specifically, partial differential equations) that are fundamental to the analysis of conventional structural elements, including trusses, beams, and plates. Emphasis is placed on recognizing the underlying physical and mathematical principles, as well as on the practical application of these principles through the development and execution of computer programs. This approach provides a comprehensive academic framework for conducting standard finite element analysis.

Starting from basic strong-form governing equations of linear but also geometrically nonlinear structural problems, the students will be able to obtain the associated (linearized) weak form on the basis of the principle of virtual displacements and virtual forces. They know about the most important steps of discretization of geometry and physics, they are familiar with the basic (isoparametric) Lagrange-type elements in 1D, 2D and 3D. The students can identify and understand the steps of pre-processing, element matrix computation, system matrix assembly, solution and post-processing in theory and source code (Python). The students will be able to distinguish stress and stability problems and to perform reliable assessment of finite element analyses to linear and nonlinear structures.

Python Intro contents:M1. Introduction to Python: Installation of Python, Python concepts; M2. First steps with Python: Walkthrough tutorial and 1st application exercise;M3. Aspects of programming/data analysis/visualization in Python: 2nd application exercise.Lecture/Exercise Contents:1. Introduction to FE as part of the design tool chain to structures, structural components2. Overview on governing equations for some structures (bar, beam, slab, plate, membrane, shell, solid); 3. Method of weighted residuals (trial function, residual, test function, integral form, weak form); 4. Discretization of geometry (partitioning of the domain, meshing, local coordinate system, mapping, Jacobi matrix); 5. Discretization of physics (local and global derivatives, isoparametric concept)6. Numerical integration of the weak form (Gauss quadrature): element matrix and element force vector, assembly, system of linear algebraic equations, solution methods (direct, iterative); 7. Nonlinear problems: general approach via Newton-Raphson method, consistent linearization8. Geometrically nonlinear structures – Green—Lagrange strains 

Written exam (100%)

Four voluntary take-home assignments can improve final grade by max 4 grade points if the exam is passed with min 50%.

 

#FUNDAMENTAL COURSE:

– 2 attempts maximum- The student must have obtained, under penalty of exclusion, a final grade higher than or equal to 10 points at the end of the fourth (4th) semester

Literature & resources

•Bathe, K.-J., Finite element procedures, Prentice Hall, 1996 •Bonet, J. & Wood, R. D., Nonlinear continuum mechanics for finite element analysis, Cambridge University Press, 1997 •de Borst, R.; Crisfield, M. A.; Remmers, J. J. C. & Verhoosel, C. V., Non-linear finite element analysis of solids and structures, John Wiley & Sons, 2012 •Cook, R. D., Finite element modeling for stress analysis, John Wiley & Sons, 1995 •Logan, D. L., A first course in the finite element method, Cengage Learning, 2010 •Reddy, J. N., An introduction to the finite element method, McGraw-Hill, 2006 •Reddy, J. N., An introduction to nonlinear finite element analysis, Oxford University Press, 2004•Schafer: Computational Engineering – Introduction to Numerical Methods, Springer•Itskov: Tensor Algebra and Tensor Analysis for Engineers, Springer•Zohdi: A Finite Element Primer for Beginners, Springer

In addition to above further reading material the students have access to lecture notes, lecture videos, software.

• Course title: Circular Economy in the construction sector
• Number of ECTS: 3
• Course code: MCES-6
• Module(s): Circular Economy in the construction sector
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

This course aims to educate students on the principles of the circular economy and a business model linked to it. Subsequently, students will acquire knowledge on implementing these concepts in the construction industry, with a particular focus on buildings. The course will involve collaborative group projects where students will apply the principles of the circular economy to a construction project.

In this course, you will gain knowledge in the following areas:

Fundamental principles of the circular economy

The five guiding circles for implementing a circular economy

Applying circular economy principles to the construction industry

Designing buildings that are adaptable

Implementing a layered approach to building design

Selecting appropriate circular building materials

Integrating circular economy principles into construction projects

Circular economy current challenges

Sustainability certifications in the construction industry.

Circular Economy, sustainable construction, Reuse/Repair/Recycle, Product-as-a-Service.

Quiz 20% > will test your knowledge of the introductory concepts of the circular economy, its principles, and its business model.

Mid-term 40% > will evaluate your comprehension of the application of circular economy principles to construction projects.

Group project 40% > The group work component will provide you with practical experience in implementing circular economy practices in the construction sector.

Literature & Resources

Course notes posted on Moodle,

Circular economy book references.

• Course title: Life Cycle Assessment and Eco Design
• Number of ECTS: 3
• Course code: MSPC-4
• Module(s): Life Cycle Assessment and Eco Design
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

Students of this course learn to design products/megastructures following the principles of sustainability. For that, students get to know what sustainable products and sustainable resources can mean. Additionally, students understand how a product’s performance for sustainability can be assessed in order to critically reflect on it. Particularly, the course aims at enabling students to apply life cycle assessment (LCA) and eco-design methods.

After successfully participating in the course, students will be able to

1.) independently improve the environmental performance of their products/megastructures and developing sustainable product concepts by applying eco-design strategies, principles and methods in the early stages of the development process,

2.)  integrate the ecological perspective in the technical product creation, and

3.) conduct their own LCA studies.

The content of the course focuses on the following main areas: – Introduction to sustainable development and related concept; – The importance of life cycle thinking; – The life cycle of products, services and megastructures; – Environmental impacts and their indicators; – Eco-design strategies, principles and methods; – Manual calculation of LCA; – Practical issues of LCA; – Critical review of LCA studies; – LCA and eco-design in early stages of the development process.

Quiz 1 / 

Written exam (33.33%)

Quiz 2 / Written exam (33.33%)

Quiz 3 / Written exam (33.33%)

Objective of the assignments: apply theoretical knowledge (concepts, categories) from previous lectures.

Assessment criteria: quality of argumentation why concepts and categories have been applied.

Assessment rules: independent and original work, submission on time.

Literature & resources

Baumann, H; Tillman, A-M: The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to LCA: An Orientation in Life Cycle Assessment Methodology and Applications. Professional Pub. Service 2004  Crul, M.R.M; Diehl J.C: Design for Sustainability: A Step-by-Step Approach. United Nations Environment Programme 2009

• Course title: Structural Dynamics
• Number of ECTS: 4
• Course code: MCES-7
• Module(s): Structural Dynamics
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The students know the theoretical foundations of discrete and continuous (longitudinal, transversal and torisional in 1D continua/structures, wave propagation in thin-walled structures) vibration problems and associated single- and multiple-degree of freedom systems. They can develop suitable models of two- and three-dimensional frame structures and know how to apply methods for the solution of the resulting system of equations of motion. The students know typical sources of structural excitation in civil and mechanical engineering and can perform first analyses based on the code (DIN).

The students will be able to:·Develop eligible structural models for selected constructions;·Perform the associated vibration analysis and its critical interpretation; ·Identify suitable modifications of structural designs in order to meet coexisting criteria such as safety, reliability and resource efficiency.

Periodic and non-periodic vibration; modelling of rigid-body systems and continuous flexible structures (rods, beams, torsion, frame structures, plane structures); derivation of the set of equations of motion: synthetic and analytic method; rotational motion/constrained motion; linearisation and solution of the equation of motion; free and forced vibration of undamped and damped structures; modal analysis and modal synthesis; modal reduction.  Exemplarily, the following engineering applications are discussed in detail:· earthquake engineering: seismic excitation, response spectrum method,· wind engineering: wind and fluid flow excitations, flow-induced vibrations,· bridge engineering: dynamic railway excitation, · damping: active and passive damping devices· rotor dynamics, aerodynamic forces: application to wind turbines.

Final written exam (60-100%)

> The exam assesses the student’s ability to apply the taught theoretical principles and methods to engineering problems. Written (closed book) exam of 120 minutes duration with a (strict) minimum pass requirement of 50%. Please note further information given at the front page of the examination sheet. Exam rating is done on a 0-100 scale.

 

Four optional assignments (0-20%)

> Students can engage in up to 4 voluntary assignments during the semester. Assignment tasks and individualized problems require prior approval by the lecturer. Details will be communicated as the course progresses. Assignment rating is done on a 0-100 scale.

Lecture material: The presentation slides discussed during the lecture Structural Dynamics are available for download. Additional material is made available during the individual class or ready for download in the description of the course week on Moodle.Further reading:•    R. R. Craig: Structural Dynamics. John Wiley & Sons, New York (1981)•    S. D. Timoshenko; D. H. Young; W. Weaver: Vibration Problems in Engineering. Wiley, New York (1974)•    R. Gasch; K. Knothe: Strukturdynamik. Springer-Verlag, Berlin [in German]

• Course title: Transport Systems Analysis
• Number of ECTS: 4
• Course code: MPDD-34
• Module(s): Transport Systems Analysis
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

This course provides the fundamentals of traffic and transport systems theory: it aims at understanding and managing the relationship between demand for mobility and the various transportation systems and explains how these lead to economic and societal problems such as congestion, pollution, etc.The goal is to provide a broad view of transportation systems analysis covering both private and public transport systems, and to complement this overview with a discussion of aspects like congestion analysis and management, intelligent transportation systems, traffic data collection methods, and new sustainable options (travel sharing, multi-modality, e-cars, etc.).

1.     Provide the student the student with a basic knowledge of transportation systems and to get in touch with the most relevant issues addressed by transportation systems theory. 2.     Introduce the student to theoretical and practical tools to analyse traffic and transport systems, to solve traffic management and infrastructure planning and design problems.

1.     Introduction to transport systems analysis and transport planning and management;2.     Supply systems and traffic flow theory: Urban and motorway systems, definition of capacity, Macroscopic models (fundamental diagram approach);3.     Demand and Travel behavior: Basics of random utility theory, decision making processes, choice set generation; 4-stage modelling, OD estimation from traffic data4.     Traffic assignment and equilibrium: Traffic assignment processes; equilibrium principles;5.     Planning and scheduling of Public Transport: Timetabling, railway capacity, safety systems, real-time rescheduling and management; PT planning and design, sustainable mobility, multimodal networks6.     Infrastructure planning and design: Basics of transport economics, pricing problems, road maintenance strategies, design and planning of new infrastructures####################################Theme:1. The complexity of modelling transportation networks is elaborated in detail, from the analysis of the demand to the arising of congestion problems and how to mitigate them.2. Different management solutions are described in the second part of the course to learn how to reduce transportation costs, and seek sustainable mobility targets.

1) Written Examination (end-of-course assessment): Objectives: Solve numerical exercises andanswer questions on theoryAssessment rules:5 questions (2 theory, 3 numerical) – 4 points eachAssessment criteria:At least 2 theory and one exercise must be completed to passWeight for final grade: 50 % – MDD100 %  – MSCE2)Be able to collect and analyse data and create a demand modelAssessment rules: Follow the 4step model to generate an OD matrix Assessment criteria: Write a report (3000 words)Weight for final grade: 50 % – (MDD/MARCH only) 

Course handouts, course notes.Cascetta E. Transport Systems Analysis. Springer (complementary reading)Ortuzar J. and Willumsen P. Transport Modelling. Wiley (complementary reading)

• Course title: Transport Systems – Project
• Number of ECTS: 2
• Course code: MCES-8
• Module(s): Transport Systems – Project
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The objective of the course is to acquire the understanding and know-how of building a transportation planning model. The course is based on a widely used commercial software PTV Visum, which allows to simulate the traffic and transport flows on a region and assess different planning solutions. The students will apply the theory learnt at the Transport Systems Analysis: Theory, in particular the development of a demand model using the 4-step approach (generation, distribution, mode choice and traffic assignment) starting from real data (sociodemographic, traffic data) and test different planning solution to resolve traffic congestion issues in Luxembourg.

The students will work in teams of 2-3 and acquire the following learning outcomes:-Regression modelling of real data-Linear optimization-Calibration and validation procedures-Simulation-Impact assessmentAdditionally, they will learn how to use a widely used commercial software, PTV-Visum.

The course is given at the computer classroom where PTV-Visum is accessible. First, the students will compete a training to learn the basics of the software and work on using the data to construct a demand model using excel. Then they will validate their demand model using traffic data and finally forecast future demand to come up with planning solutions to resolve future issues. Three phases are defined. In the first month (March) they will work on the data and construct the demand model, then (April) they will use the demand model into the software and calibrate and validate the traffic model. Finally (May) they will apply forecasting for predicting the future demand and assessing potential solutions.

Group work (100%):

Task 1: Construct an origin-destination (OD) matrix using a regression model and linear optimization – write a report on the procedure followed from data collection to creating the OD matrix.

Task 2: Calibrate the OD matrix using traffic counts and by simulating traffic flows with Visum – iteratively simulate flows and correct the OD matrix to match the real traffic data in excel.

Task 3: Forecast future demand growth and assess the impact on simulation of different planning solutions – write a report on the future scenarios and impact assessment.

Literature & resources

 TSA: Theory lectures and slidesSociodemographic data providedTraffic data providedTutorial

• Course title: Project management methods for construction projects
• Number of ECTS: 3
• Course code: MCES-9
• Module(s): Project management methods for construction projects
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The aim of the course “Project management methods for construction projects” is to provide students with a sound understanding of how project management works in the construction industry and in building construction in particular. The participants should understand the particular challenges of this industry, including the complex planning processes, the coordination of many parties involved and the strict adherence to deadlines and budgets.

At the end of the course, students should be able to effectively manage a building construction project from planning to completion and apply the tools and methods commonly used to keep the quality, time and costs of a construction project under control.

Basics of project management in the construction industry: From project initiation to completion.Special challenges in construction: Unpredictable factors and risk management on the construction site.Important project management methods: Dealing with scheduling, cost control, quality management and resource control.Use of project management tools: Presentation and application of software solutions such as BIM (Building Information Modeling), project planning software (e.g. MS Project) and collaboration platforms.

Written exam (100%)

Students are presented with a sample project which they must use to check compliance with the targets set by the customer. To pass the test, the existing deviations from the fields, costs, scheduling and qualities must be identified and the necessary steps for the 3 fields (costs, scheduling and qualities) must be named based on the identified deviations. Attendance (Pass/Fail)Students must have attended at least 75% of the lectures to be able to write the exam. 

• Course title: Engineering Surveying
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MCES-10
• Module(s): Engineering Surveying
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The general aim is to provide a module for students of the Master in Civil Engineering to introduce them to and raise the awareness of the field of engineering surveying (ES) with a focus on megastructures and sustainability.  More specific aims of the module include:·        to provide knowledge and understanding of current theories and developments,·        to encourage an understanding and critical awareness of observation techniques and their associated error budgets,·        to enhance understanding of the relevant design and management processes, and·        to gain experience in the analysis of spatial information in combination with practical Geographical Information Systems (GIS) skills.

Students will obtain the1) knowledge and understanding of

scientific concepts, principles and theories appropriate to ES relevant to megastructures,

advanced techniques appropriate to the application of technologies in ES and geospatial data analysis;

2) intellectual skills: ability to

select and apply mathematical methods in modeling, analysis, and problem-solving,

select and apply scientific and technological principles to model, analyze and solve problems;

3) subject-based practical skills: ability to

use relevant information technology,

carry out field surveys and geospatial analysis using GIS;

4) skills for life and work

communication skills,

problem-solving skills,

analytical skills,

knowledge application.

Geodetic Principles – Dfinitions, Coordinate Systems and Reference Systems, Map projectionsVertical Control – Instruments, Principles, Error sourcesAngle and Distance Measurements – Instruments, Principles, Corrections, ReductionsAnalytical Methods 1 – Statistical Principles, Errors and Error PropagationAnalytical Methods 2 – Least-squares adjustmentGeodetic computations 1 – Coordinate Computations, TraversingGeodetic Computations 2 – Transformations, Areas and VolumesSatellite Positioning – Principles, Observations, Error and PositioningGeographical Information Systems – Introduction and ApplicationsSetting Out – Basic and advanced procedures, coordinates, curves and gridsPhotogrammetry and 3D Imaging 1 – Laser Scanning and 3D Point cloudsPhotogrammetry and 3D Imaging 2 – Photogrammetry and 3D Image ProcessingThemes: 1. Megastructures & 2. Sustainability:1. All chapters will have a special focus on megastructures and their associated complexities in terms of geodetic instrumentation and systems, analythical methods, their applications and related management systems.2. GIS technology provides the means for planning, managing, analysing and visualizing data associated with developing and managing infrastructure, especially of megastructures. Hence, it plays an ever increasing role as a tool in engineering and construction in a world with limited resources.

The final mark is a combination of coursework, project work and written exam.

Literature:

Uren, J. and Price, W.F.: “Surveying for Engineers”, 5th Ed., Palgrave Macmillan, 2010.Schofiled, W. and Breach, M.: „Engineering Surveying“, 6th Ed., Butterworth-Heinemann, Oxford, 2007.Kavanagh, B.F.: „Surveying with Construction Applications“, 6th Ed., Pearson Prentice Hall, Upper Saddle River, 2007.Witte, B. and Sparla, P: „Vermessungskunde und Grundlagen der Statistik für das Bauwesen“, Wichmann Verlag, Berlin-Offenbach, 2011Benning, W.:“Statistik in Geodäsie, Geoinformation und Bauwesen“, Wichmann Verlag, Berlin-Offenbach, 2009Möser, M et al.: „Handbuch Ingenieurgeodäsie – Ingenieurbau“, Wichmann Verlag, Berlin-Offenbach, 2008.Bill, R. and Resnik, B.: “Vermessungskunde für den Planungs-, Bau- und Umweltbereich“, Wichmann Verlag, Berlin-Offenbach, 2009Van Sickle, J.: “GPS for Land surveyors”, CRC Press, 2008.Hofmann-Wellenhof, B., Lichtenegger, H., Wasle, E.: “GNSS – Global Navigation Satellite Systems: GPS, Glonass, Galileo and more”, Springer, 2007.Heywood, I., Cornelius, S. & Carver, S. (2006) An introduction to geographical information systems, 3rd Edition, Prentice Hall.Longley, P.A., Goodchild, M., Maguire, D.J., Rhind, D.W. (2010), Geographic Information Systems and Science, 3rd Edition, Wiley

• Course title: Sustainable Water and Resources Management
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MPDD-35
• Module(s): Sustainable Water and Resources Management
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

Currently, a transition is taking place in Europe towards an increasing awareness of the impact of our behavior on the environment. Instead of unrestricted use of fossil fuels, the focus is slowly shifting towards minimizing energy consumption or using renewable sources of energy with the purpose to reduce carbon emissions. The current configuration of the urban water cycle is, from and energy use perspective, not as sustainable as it could be. For example, more than 85% of the energy input in the total urban water cycle (drinking water production, distribution, use in households, wastewater collection and treatment) is used to heat our water. Much of this energy is simply wasted and ultimately discharged to the environment. The creation of a system with a sustainable use of energy within the urban water cycle is necessary.

This course provides the fundamentals of sustainable technologies in wastewater and sludge treatment: it aims at understanding and managing the main processes that are necessary, the consumption of energy to conduct these processes in wastewater treatment plants as well as the possibilities of energy production from wastewater and sludge. The main goal is to provide a broad view of conventional wastewater treatment technologies and new sustainable options.

In addition to the theoretical part of this course, case studies will be presented by internal and external experts, simulation tools used in practice are provided to get a deeper knowledge in interactions between different treatment processes. The course is complete by two field trips to national and international enterprises dealing with sustainable wastewater and sludge treatment technologies.

Provide the student with a basic knowledge of transportation systems and to get in touch with the most relevant issues addressed by transportation systems theory.

Introduce the student to theoretical and practical tools to analyse traffic and transport systems, to solve traffic management and infrastructure planning and design problems.

I. State of the art in wastewater and sludge treatmentII. Future challengesClimate changeDemographic developmentShortage/limitation of Resources (energy, phosphorus)III. Emerging pollutants: Micropollutants in wastewaterIV. Resources in WastewaterEnergy (consumption + production)  Nutrients (recovery)Water (reuse V. Ressource-oriented concepts in wastewater treatment

Written Examination + Computer-aided essay

Metcalf & Eddy: ‘Wastewater Engineering, Treatment and Reuse’

Water Environment Federation ‘Energy Conservation in Water and Wastewater’

Cao ‘Mass flow and Energy Efficiency of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants’

Environmental Protection Agency: ‘An Energy Management Guidebook for Wastewater and Water Utilities’

Asano ‘Wastewater Reclamation and Reuse’

Khanal ‘Anaerobic Biotechnology for Bioenergy Production: Principles and Applications’

• Course title: Energy efficiency of buildings, part 1 & 2, lab 1
• Number of ECTS: 4
• Course code: MPDD-11
• Module(s): Energy efficiency of buildings, part 1 & lab 1
• Language:
• Mandatory: Yes

Concepts for energy efficient and comfortable buildings

Students understand basics of comfort and energy in buildings

The student understands the relevant parameters for energy efficient buildings:

–        

The basics in building physics and the aspects related to the building envelope

–        

The user and his need in terms of comfort

–        

The technical installations, especially heating / ventilation / air-conditioning / lighting

The student 

understands and can work with the energy relevant parameters of building materials and building components.

The student 

knows the common technical installations and t

he student 

is able to evaluate them on their energy performance. relevant parameter of building.

The student 

understands the basics of establishing energy balances and evaluations of buildings.

As civil engineer 

the student 

disposes on the necessary knowledge and vocabulary to communicate with the specialists (energy consultants, building services engineers…) in this field.

 Basics in building physics and energy efficiency of buildings (Part 1: S. Maas):                                                                                            1. The role of the building2. The actual situation of administrative buildings     3. Contaminants in buildings                                                                   4. Comfort and needs of occupants                                                        5. How to assure thermal comfort                                                            6. Windows (gains, losses, orientation)                                                  7. Air tightness                                                                                       8. Thermal inertia/mass          9. Ventilation & cooling                                                                          10. Heat pumps and solar collectors                                                      11. Heat recovery                                                                                  12. Heating needs                                                                                13. Final energy and primary energy                                                             14. Coefficients of performance                                                              15. Energy performance certificates                                                             16. The norm EN832                                                                            17. The Energy Performance of Buildings Directives (EPBD): 2002/91/EC & 2010/31/EU     Lab 1 content (PhD-students/1 ECTS):                                                    1. Thermal comfort                                                                                       2. Heat Flowmeter                                                                                      3. Thermography                                                                                     4. Lighting                                                                                                    5. Blower-Door Test                                                                                    6. Software Lesosai for stationary energy balances                           7.Thermal Bridges – CataloguePart 2 (F. Scholzen):Concepts for energy efficient and comfortable buildings: Technical installations Introduction: active and passive measuresHeating:  Heat load, heating systems, heat production and distributionVentilation needsMoist air, psychrometric diagram (Mollier)Air-conditioning: Chillers, Room Air Cooling, Air handling UnitsFree CoolingShort introduction to renewable energies in buildings Lab. Sessions:Introduction and general guidelines for the measurements, Thermography, Blower-door test, Measurement of humidity, Measurement of heat flux, Acoustic Measurement 

  End-of-course assessment: 

   Written exam – 90 min – 20 points

Oral exam – 

Depending on the number of students and/or external constraints, a partial or completely oral exam format may be chosen by the teachers !

 Part I:

Roulet, Santé et quailté de l’environnement intérieur dans les bâtiments, 2004, Lausanne

Multiple handouts during the lessons

W. Feist, das Niedrigenergiehaus, C.F. Müller, 1998

RWE Bau Handbuch,VWEW Energieverlag, 2004 

Part II: Script

Part Lab. Sessions : Hand-out’s

access to LESOSAI for one lab session

 

• Course title: Underground structures Advanced soil mechanics
• Number of ECTS: 3
• Course code: MCES-11
• Module(s): Underground structures Advanced soil mechanics
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The students acquire the knowledge on the: •principles for the assessment of coupled soil behavior under complex loading states and the advanced field and laboratory  testing methods •fundamental concepts for design and construction of resilient geostructures according to soil conditions, expected loads and technical requirements•sustainable methods for soil improvement and strategies to estimate the stability and deformation of reinforced soil structures  

•Students must know the appropriate solutions for various types of geotechnical problems and their technical limitations and construction details.•Students should be able to understand the basis of empirical, analytical and theoretical methods to assess the performance and design the geotechnical structures 

The course deals with:• Advanced in-situ and laboratory testing methods• Fundamentals behavior of soils under monotonic and cyclic loading• Principles of geotechnical design based on Eurocode 7• Shallow Foundations • Deep Foundations• Retaining structures• Anchors and underpinning• Tunnels and underground structures• Soil improvement and corresponding design methods• Introduction to Environmental Geotechnics

Written exam (100%)

Literature and resources

Book “Foundation Analysis and Design”, by Joseph E. Bowles (McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.)

Book “Soil Behaviour and Critical States Soil Mechanics”, by David Muir Wood (Cambridge Press)

Book “Recommendations for Design and Analysis of Earth Structures using Geosynthetic Reinforcements – EBGEO”, German Geotechnical Society, Ernst & Sohn Verlag für Architektur und technische Wissenschaften GmbH & Co. KG

 

Lecture notes

• Course title: Advanced (Design) project / Case Study
• Number of ECTS: 9
• Course code: MSCE-35
• Module(s): Advanced (Design) project / Case Study
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

In this project the students will learn to implement and combine their knowledge and skills obtained from the technical courses (steel, concrete, etc.), the management courses (project management, managerial accounting/entrepreneurship) and also the skills in presentation and scientific writing. They have to develop and optimise the structural design of a real project considering the building construction method within their sustainability and the boundary conditions of the project.

1. The student is able to do scientific and engineering analyses for the structural design and management of an important project and will develop realizable technical solutions and construction details for it (problem analysis – solver – solution).

2. The student can implement the main themes related to megastructures and sustainable engineering.

3.  The student is able to organise the project work and to respect the time schedule of it, looking at the capacities and character styles available in the group.

4.  The student is able to fulfil the set tasks by an independent elaboration.

5.  The student is able to present this work in scientific writing and presentation.

· Project management · Project analyses· Project planning· Project implementation· Project design. Project presentationThemes: 1. Megastructures & 2. Sustainability:The students have to implement the two themes Megastructures & Sustainability into their project.

Report & Presentation

All professors of civil engineering

• Course title: Prestressed Concrete Structures
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MSCE-33
• Module(s): Prestressed Concrete Structures
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The course enables the students to design and detail prestressed concrete elements. The student will be able to apply procedures to recognize the structural behavior of prestressed elements with a special reference to creeping and shrinkage. For this type of constructions, the student will acquire basic knowledge for the dimensioning and design with respect to durability, serviceability and ultimate limit states.

At the end of this course the students will be able to design a bridge superstructure made out of pre-stressed concrete.

• Notations and definitions• Materials and their properties• Load case pretensioning and the reaction of the cross section• Structural analysis of the cross section of prestressed elements in function of the internal forces• Study of the deformations of pre-stressed elements in function of time

1. Take-home assignment (33%)

Project submission

 

2. Take-home assignment (33%)

Project submission

 

3. Oral exam (33%)

• Course title: Steel & Composite Structures 2 – Bridges
• Number of ECTS: 4
• Course code: MSCE-36
• Module(s): Steel & Composite Structures 2 – Bridges
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

The learning target concerns the structure of a modern steel road bridge in orthotropic structure for the mid- and long span range. The student will get the knowledge to develop and show the full structural integrity of a steel-based bridge system, basing on the requirements of EN 1991 and EN1993 for action determination and the basic checks of structural integrity including fatigue checks.

The student is able 

1.to assign suitable efficient structural systems for bridges with different span ranges from short span up to long span,2.to determine the suitable load models of EN1991 of road bridges with respective forces and applicable areas,3.to develop and draft a structure of a modern orthotropic steel deck plate bridge,4.to investigate the effects of the different load positions to find the load positions for maximum internal forces and moments with the method of influence line,5.to determine internal forces and moments with the help of finite element computer programs,6.to calculate stresses at all relevant positions in the structure according to the various load positions         -and to overlay these in order to show the structural integrity for the static load pattern.7.to apply the load model for fatigue – according to EN 1991 – onto the bridge.8.to assess the relevant factors, which are applied to the stresses, to respect the fatigue effects out of type of road, type of bridge and estimated traffic count,9.to show the structural integrity of the bridge and its details for fatigue impact.

1. Introduction to Bridges2. Overview and Terms3. Load Assumptions of Road Bridges4. Steel Road Bridge Structural Analysis 5. Check of Fatigue Integrity6. Structural details

Task 1 – 

Active participation 

Objectives: Participation in Lectures and Tutorials

 

 

Task 2 – 

Take-home assignment

Objectives: Group Work with final report about a selected bridge structure. The student gets acquainted with the problems of bridge buildings and learns, how these problems have been solved for one exemplary case.

Assessment rules: Group work with different parts for different students and visible separation of the parts.

Assessment criteria: Quality and plausibility of the developed solution concerning the points given in the task assignment.

 

 

Task 3 – 

Presentation

Objectives: Learn to present and defend own findings in front of a small audience.

Assessment rules: The bridge of Task 2 is taken as basis. Group work with well visible separated parts, allocated to the different students.

Assessment criteria: Quality and plausibility of the developed solution concerning the points given in the task assignment

 

 

Task 4 – 

Written exam

Objectives: Show the ability to apply the learned analyzing- and calculation methods, which have been explained in the lecture and shown exemplarily in the tutorials

Assessment rules: Hand-written exam. Allowed are calculator (non-programmable) and one hand-written sheet (written on both sides). Click or tap here to enter text.

Assessment criteria: Obtained points in the exam

Literature list-EN 1991-EN 1993L. Simoes da Silva, R. Simoes, H. Gervasio : Design of Steel Structures, ECCS Eurocode Design Manuals, Wiley Ernst und Sohn, Berlin, New York .-Script SCS-2 – Steel Bridge-C. Petersen; “Stahlbau”, Vieweg-Verlag-K.-J. Schneider; “Bautabellen für Ingenieure”; Werner Verlag -U. Kuhlmann; Stahlbau-Kalender, Verlag Ernst und Sohn

• Course title: Numerical soil mechanics
• Number of ECTS: 4
• Course code: MSCE-47
• Module(s): Numerical soil mechanics
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

Understanding fundamentals of finite element method in modelling, design and control for geotechnical structures and learning effective methodologies to generate proper models to prognosis soil-structure interactions by performing nonlinear analysis.

After successfully completing the course, the students are able to• create numerical models of complex boundary value problems of geotechnics, with adequate details on geometrical and boundary condition,  • transfer the detailed real-world problems into idealized but realistic 2D and 3D numerical models with relevant boundary conditions and constitutive models • assess numerical models and evaluate validity of results in a critical way.

The course provides an overview of numerical simulation for geotechnical problems covering construction details, staged excavation processes, support measures, material modeling, discretization, and evaluation of numerical results. Various constitutive models and their parameters for different materials are presented to ensure accurate results. The course also addresses constitutive parameter calibration, model validation, and verification techniques. Basics of invariant model development for 2D and 3D discretization are explained, along with fully coupled hydromechanical finite element solutions for soil-water interactions in different analyses.

Take-home assignment (25%)

Written exam (75%)

 

There are 2-projects/assignments to be done in individually.Projects have different topics such as: slope stability sensitive analyses, foundation bearing capacity, retaining walls..etc.The assessment considers:1-Critical thinking and efficiency on problem solving within the assignment2-The written exam that consists of: (a) technical and fundamental part, and (b) practical part including numerical analysis of a geotechnical problem in the exam

• Course title: Composite Structures & Fire Design
• Number of ECTS: 5
• Course code: MSCE-25
• Module(s): Composite Structures & Fire Design
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

– Fundamentals of fire development- Physical basics of heat transfer- Behavior of building materials under high temperatures- Actions and effects in fire- Natural fire curve and ISO standard fire- Design of structural elements in fire- Structural components and details- Constructive fire protection- Examples of executed projects

WRITTEN EXAM and HOMEWORK

75% of the grade by the written exam and 25% by homework

• Course title: Scientific writing and presentation skills
• Number of ECTS: 3
• Course code: LC_CAT-195
• Module(s): Scientific writing and presentation skills
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes

This course aims to give students the background and confidence to write effective scientific reports.

The students will learn the fundamentals of effective scientific and professional writing. Presentation skills, verbal and non-verbal communication as well as specific documents such as the executive summaries will be covered.  

At the end of the course the student should be able to express ideas in a clear, coherent and concise written form, gain control over nonverbal language during an oral presentation and interact with the audience.  

Presentation skills. Scientific writing skills. 

Task 1: take-home assignement (33.3%)

Objective: Deliver all assignments or homeworks

Criteria: Apply the rules for concise, coherent and positive writing

 

 

Task 2: take-home assignement (33.3%)

Objective: Perform a 7 minute oral presentation

Criteria: Apply the rules for eye contact, intonation, presentation layout and body language

Assessment rules: The text will be graded according to the criteria defined in the sessions

 

 

Task 3: take-home assignement (33.3%)

Objective: Write a report

Criteria: Apply the rules for coherence, clarity and technical content

Assessment rules: The text will be graded according to the criteria defined in the sessions

 

Mandatory attendance

 

Literature and resources

All literature and resources are given during the sessions in form of a script.

• Course title: Master thesis
• Number of ECTS: 30
• Course code: MSCE-14
• Module(s): Master thesis
• Language: EN
• Mandatory: Yes