Geoengine
homeicon university sucheicon search siteicon sitemap kontakticon contact
unilogo Universität Stuttgart
GEOENGINE

Graduate Course - Modules

 

Module 1: Advanced Mathematics

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Advanced Mathematics 1 3/2 5 Prof. Keller
Module coordinator Prof. Keller
Pre-requisites Skills in Calculus to an extend, which is usually provided by an undergraduate mathematics course
Objectives The module aims at establishing a common level of math skills for all students, smoothing out their individual entry levels. The module will provide secure skills in calculus, potential theory, theory of differential equations and Fourier analysis for later use in the other modules of the GEOENGINE curriculum.
Content
  • Vector analysis
  • Integral theorems
  • Special functions
  • Ordinary and partial differential equations
  • Potential theory
Teaching methods Classical lectures, supported by exercises. Exercises are given as homework and the solutions have to be presented in seminar form. The presentations will be assessed. Additional tutorials are offered to those students, who need a stronger support. A mid-term written test is compulsory. The students are provided a collection of exercises with solutions for self-study.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 90 minutes (open book)
- assessment of presentation of exercises solutions
- mid-term test
Weights
9(12)
2(12)
1(12)
Remarks -

 

Module 2: Geomatics Methodology

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Statistical Inference 1 2/1 10 Dr. Krumm
Dynamic System Estimation 1 2/1 Prof. Kleusberg
Signal Processing 1 2/1 Prof. Fritsch
Module coordinator Prof. Fritsch
Pre-requisites Elementary knowledge of mathematics and statistical inference is expected from prior BSc programs.
Objectives This module conveys advanced skills in statistical analysis and optimal processing of geodetic observations. From the different module sections the student will gain deeper knowledge and experience in the mathematical concepts of static and dynamic modelling approaches. This enables the student to solve for a wide range of problems in the field of network adjustments, Kalman filtering and digital image processing. The main focus of the module section Statistical Inference is to qualify students to independently decide on and to implement the appropriate adjustment model dependent on the type of application. Besides the standard adjustment approaches special focus is laid on advanced models and kinematic applications, which directly leads to the second module section. The Dynamic System Estimation part will concentrate on the dynamic modelling only. Through this module section the student will appreciate the role of dynamic system modelling and is enabled to formulate state space vectors adopted for specific applications. The processing of time discrete signals as they are provided from the various geodetic sensors plays a fundamental role within the overall measurement process. Within the module section Signal Processing the student will get an in-depth knowledge of filter analysis and will understand the design of signal processing systems based on statistical approaches and estimation processes.
Content
  • Foundations of linear algebra and parameter estimation
  • Least squares model, Gauß-Markoff model with/without restrictions, mixed model, prediction and collocation
  • Linear/linearized dynamic models
  • Discrete signals, discrete convolution, discrete Fourier transform, fast Fourier transform
  • Stochastic processes and error models
  • Optimal filters, recursive filter, smoothing technologies, Kalman filtering
  • Two dimensional signal processing, signal representation, 2D filters
Teaching methods Classical lectures supported by multi-medial e-learning sections for self study. The theoretical part of the module is accompanied by lab exercises, including practical application of theory. The technical communication component is mostly in written form.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 180 minutes (closed book)
- term work Statistical Inference
- term work Dynamic System Estimation
- term work Signal Processing
Weights
9 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
Remarks Since Statistical Inference provides base knowledge for the second module section Dynamic System Estimation, the first section will be taught at the beginning of the semester. The topics related to the Dynamic System Estimation section are concentrated within the second half of the semester then, after finishing the Statistical Inference block.

 

Module 3: Geodesy

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Satellite Geodesy 1 2/1 3+6 Prof. Keller
Physical Geodesy 2 2/1 Prof. Sneeuw
Map Projections & Geodetic Coordinate Systems 2 2/1 Dr. Krumm
Module coordinator Prof. Sneeuw
Pre-requisites Knowledge of Advanced Mathematics (Module 1) is required for module sections Physical Geodesy and Map Projections & Coordinate Systems.
Objectives This module provides the student with profound knowledge of classical and modern geodetic concepts. Through the individual module sections the student will appreciate the fundamental role of coordinate systems and coordinate frames in geomatics engineering. The Satellite Geodesy module section enables the student to independently judge and apply satellite geodetic techniques for coordinate acquisition with sound knowledge of wave propagation and error modelling. From the Physical Geodesy module section, the student will appreciate the role of the Earth’s gravity field as a natural reference system and will learn about spherical and ellipsoidal approximations. The module section on Map Projections and Geodetic Coordinate Systems provides critical skills and tools to represent and map the Earth, and to perform datum transformations.
Content
  • Global vs. local, inertial vs. Earth-fixed coordinate systems, coordinate transformations, datum transformations
  • Conventional reference systems and frames, time systems
  • Signal propagation
  • Orbital mechanics
  • Potential theory, gravitation, boundary value problems
  • Gravimetry, height systems, geodynamics
  • Differential geometry, representation of surface metrics, Cauchy-Riemann deformation tensor
  • Map projections (conformal, equal-area and optimal, GK, UTM)
Teaching methods To a large extent classical lectures, supported by lab exercises. Labs, some of which will be conducted in small groups, consist of programming (Matlab), data processing, analysis and technical communication of results. The technical communication component is mostly in written form. However, all students will have to present their work several times in seminars. The e-learning component and available Q&A catalogues allow the students to assess their knowledge independently.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 60+120 minutes (closed book)
- term work satellite geodesy
- term work physical geodesy
- term work map projections & geodetic coordinate systems
Weights
9 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
Remarks -

 

Module 4: Data Acquisition

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Terrestrial Multisensor Data Acquisition 1 2/1 3+6 Prof. Schwieger
Airborne Data Acquisition 2 1/1 Prof. Fritsch
Remote Sensing 2 2/1 Prof. Kleusberg
Module coordinator Prof. Kleusberg
Pre-requisites Knowledge of Advanced Mathematics (Module 1) and Geomatics Methodology (Module 2) is required for module sections Airborne Data Acquisition and Remote Sensing.
Objectives The objective of this module is to provide the student with a thorough understanding of methods and modern instrumentation for the acquisition of spatial data using terrestrial, airborne and space-borne platforms. Based on the information provided in this module, the students will be in a position for a specific task of data acquisition at hand to evaluate the various options for the acquisition of these data. They will be able to select either terrestrial, airborne or space-borne methods, or an appropriate mixture of these. For each of these methods they will have an understanding of the parameters governing the temporal and spatial resolution, the spatial and temporal sampling, the accuracy and the availability of the data.
Content
  • Terrestrial data acquisition with multisensor systems
  • Analogue and digital data registration, bus-based systems
  • Synchronisation, Real-time data processing
  • Graphical programming of data acquisition systems
  • Analogue and digital imagery
  • Image processing (interior and exterior orientation, aerotriangulation, orthophoto generation)
  • Operation of digital photogrammetric work stations
  • Non-optical airborne sensors (Laser scanner, Radarsystems)
  • 3D digital elevation models, virtual city models
  • Physical foundations of satellite remote sensing systems
  • Emission, transmission, absorption and reflection of radiation
  • Capture and measurement of radiation data in sensor systems
  • Transmission, storage and presentation of remote sensing data
  • Modern satellite based remote sensing systems
Teaching methods To a large extent classical lectures, supported by lab exercises. Labs are comprised of programming, data processing, analysis and technical communication of results. The module section Terrestrial Data Acquisition includes an integrated project for the acquisition, processing and analysis of a multi-sensor system. Results of lab exercises are presented in written form and, orally, in regularly scheduled seminars.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 60+120 minutes (closed book)
- term work Terrestrial Multisensor Data Acquisition
- term work Airborne Data Acquisition
- term work Remote Sensing
Weights
9 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12))
Remarks - Excursion to the Intergraph/ZI-Imaging facilities in Aalen

 

Module 5: Representation of Geodata

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Geoinformatics 2 2/1 5 Prof. Fritsch
Thematic Cartography 2 1/1 Dr. Metzner
Module coordinator Prof. Fritsch
Pre-requisites The module is based on the foundations from Advanced Mathematics (Module 1)
Objectives Within this module the students will understand the methods and technologies of spatial data handling, analysis and presentation. The students will be enabled to acquire the relevant geodata for a complex application and to perform the appropriate geometric, topologic and thematic modelling, analysis and presentation.
The main focus of the Geoinformatics module section is the acquisition of geodata, its management, analysis and representation. This part will offer students a deeper insight into the technologies of spatial data structures, data representation schemes and methods for data analysis.
This knowledge is supplemented by topics covered in the Thematic Cartography module section. This part of the course will convey competence in the basics of cartography and the creation and optimal presentation of thematic data.
Content
  • Geodata acquisition (methods, sources, hardware, interaction, meaning of separate data sources)
  • Data Modelling (geometric, topologic, thematic) and data management (file systems, data base systems, data models)
  • Access mechanisms for spatial data (hierarchic-static methods, dynamic methods)
  • Methods for data analysis (geometric analysis, raster analyses, network analyses)
  • Analysis for information systems requirements (focus on thematic maps)
  • Scientific cartography, cognitive maps, structure of the geo-data market
  • Techniques of homogenizing data sets (matching and merging)
  • Map design, animated maps, thematic maps for individual and public transport
Teaching methods Classical lectures supported by practical exercises. Parts of these exercises are performed as team work in the computer lab, during which a large sample project is realized from data acquisition to data analysis and up to presentation. Additional home exercises are performed to deepen the theoretical knowledge and to assess individual knowledge.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 90 minutes (closed book)
- term work Geoinformatics
- term work Thematic Cartography
Weights
6 (8)
1 (8)
1 (8)
Remarks -

 

Module 6: Language and Culture

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Language 1 180 hours 9 Lecturers from the Department of Intercultural Education
Module coordinator Dr. Herrmann
Pre-requisites Teaching level according to the results of grading test
Objectives The module conveys a basic knowledge about German grammar, vocabulary, regional and cultural studies and it provides basic conversations skills. At the end of the module the students will have acquired the following skills:
   - Listening comprehension
   - Reading comprehension
   - Grammar
   - Text production.
The content of the module is oriented at the European Reference Frame Basic level / level A - B.
Content
  • Grammar and vocabulary
  • Exercises in listening comprehension
  • Development of strategies for reading of complex texts
  • Development of competences in daily-life communication
  • Intercultural problems
  • Living and working in Germany
  • Leisure and travelling
  • Mass media
Teaching methods Communicative tuition
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

written final examination, 180 minutes
written mid term test + oral test
Weights
2(3)
1(3)
Remarks The module is taught in German as a six-week compact course prior to the beginning of the first semester. Placement is based on the results of prior Online Placement Tests. Participation in the course requires regular presence in the classes. Successful attendance is mandatory. An exemption is only possible if the student can proof sufficient knowledge of German.

 

Module 7: Law

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Law 1 2/0 3 Attorney Speichert
Module coordinator Attorney Speichert
Pre-requisites -
Objectives The module imparts basic features of the contract, media and internet law. The student learns to recognize the separate functions and business processes, their main subjects and their duties and responsibilities. This results in a better understanding of the role and use of information technology in businesses across all functions.
Content This module provides the students with fundamental knowledge in distinct areas:
  • Objectives and mechanism of law, the legal system (overview), the system of national law, the European system of law, international law
  • Contracts: General remarks, requirements for a contract in general, terms of contract, irregularities in the performance of the contract, types of contract, disputes, arbitration, law-suits
  • The law on torts (liability): general remarks tort liability based on fault, product liability
  • Selected field of law (overview): Labour law, the law of business associations, competition law, copyright, patent, brands and related rights, data protection, other areas of interest (i.e. new European legislation on e-commerce, …)
Teaching methods Classical lectures complemented by case studies for the deeper understanding of the theoretical outlines
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

written final examination, 90 minutes (closed book)
Weights
1 (1)
Remarks The lecture is as a one-week compact course, typically at the end of the lecture period of the winter semester.

 

Module 8: Integrated Fieldwork

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Integrated Fieldwork 3 10 days 5 Prof. Schwieger
Prof. Fritsch
Prof. Keller
Prof. Kleusberg
Prof. Sneeuw
Module coordinator PD Dr. Schwieger
Pre-requisites Advanced Mathematics (Module 1), Geomatics Methodology (Module 2), Geodesy (Module 3), Data Acquisition (Module 4) and Representation of Geodata (Module 5).
Objectives This module is the synthesis of all knowledge acquired in previous modules. It enables students to analyse real-life Geomatics Engineering tasks and to solve those tasks and problems with an engineering approaching an autonomous way. Through carefully designed project planning students will simultaneously develop project management and team work skills.
Content Varying topics will be dealt with; examples of the past project are “geoid determination”, “development of a tourist information system” and “setting out of a tunnel”.
Teaching methods The students work in a team for ten days to realize a project on a special topic. The individual measurement, evaluation and analysis tasks will be carried through in small working groups. The lecturers supervise the work and guide the students to solve occurring problems.
Before the fieldwork the students have to prepare their part of the common project. This task comprises the presentation of a work package as well as a task description for the colleagues.
After the fieldwork the students have to prepare a final report and to present the results of their work package.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- oral examination (presentation), 20 minutes
- final written report
- preparation of fieldwork
Weights
3 (10)
4 (10)
3 (10)
Remarks The fieldwork is realized at variable places in the vicinity of Stuttgart.

 

Module 9: Positioning and Navigation

Elective

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Satellite Navigation 2 2/1 10 Alexandra Seifert
Integrated Positioning and Navigation 2 2/1 Prof. Kleusberg
Satellite Geodesy Observation Techniques 2 1/1 Prof. Keller
Module coordinator Prof. Kleusberg
Pre-requisites Advanced Mathematics (Module 1) and Geomatics Methodology (Module 2)
Objectives The objective of this module is to provide a profound knowledge of modern positioning and navigation methods and systems, and the related equipment. The students will be able to select from those systems a particular one, or a combination of systems, to satisfy a given positioning or navigation requirement. They understand the different accuracy levels achievable by utilising these systems based on a particular selection of hardware and processing methodology and software. They understand the tools for combining measurements from sensors of different systems, especially in the case of kinematic positioning and navigation.
Content
  • Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GPS, Glonass, Galileo)
  • GNSS signal structure and signal propagation
  • GNSS receiver structure and measurement techniques
  • On-board navigation sensors, Inertial Measurement Units (Strap-Down)
  • Satellite Laser Ranging, Satellite Altimetry
  • Satellite-to-Satellite Tracking
  • Very Long Baseline Interferometry
  • Sensor fusion, Kalman Filter application in positioning and navigation
  • Error estimation and control
Teaching methods To a large extent classical lectures, supported by lab exercises. Labs include programming exercises and the acquisition and processing of GNSS and IMU data both in real-time and post mission mode. Lab results are prepared in written form and are presented to the class in seminars.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 180 minutes (closed book)
- term work Satellite Navigation
- term work Integrated Positioning and Navigation
- term work Satellite Geodesy Observation Techniques
Weights
9 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
Remarks -

 

Module 10: Geo-Telematics

Elective

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Topology and Optimization 2 2/1 10 Prof. Fritsch
Transport Telematics 2 2/1 Dr. Metzner
Kinematic Measurements and Positioning 2 2/1 Prof. Schwieger
Module coordinator PD Dr. Schwieger
Pre-requisites Advanced Mathematic (Module 1), Geomatics Methodology (Module 2) and Data Acquisition (Module 4).
Objectives The students will be able to analyse the interaction of telematics, positioning and guidance for moving objects. They will learn to realize algorithms for navigation, guidance and optimization as well as to observe, model and position moving objects.
The section Topology and Optimization deals with the regarding to topology and guidance as well as the respective optimization algorithms.
The section Transport Telematics provides knowledge about the interaction of information sources for applications within the transportation sector.
The section Kinematic Measurements and Positioning deals with the observation, modelling, positioning and controlling of moving objects.
Content
  • Open, closed and interrelated sets, open kernel and closed hull
  • Topological gender, graph theory, guidance algorithms
  • Linear and non-linear optimization
  • Branch- and Bound algorithm, travelling salesman problem
  • Digital road network
  • Communication technologies
  • Positioning and navigation systems
  • Traffic management systems, computer assisted operational control systems
  • Information services for traffic, driver assistance systems
  • Data acquisition and modelling of moving objects
  • Robot tachymeters, kinematic sensors
  • Positioning for moving objects, Kalman filter and further filter algorithms
  • Integration of kinematic measurements into control circles
Teaching methods Classical lectures supported by practical exercises. Additional home exercises are performed to deepen the theoretical knowledge. A part of the practical and the home exercises will be carried through in autonomous working groups.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- written examination, 180 minutes (closed book)
- term work Topology and Optimization
- term work Transport Telematics
- term work Kinematic Measurements and Positioning
Weights
9 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
1 (12)
Remarks The laboratories for GIS and engineering geodesy metrology are used for this module.

 

Master Thesis

Compulsory

Module sections Semester Lecture/Lab ECTS Lecturers
Master Thesis 3   25 Prof. Fritsch
Prof. Keller
Prof. Kleusberg
Prof. Sneeuw
Prof. Schwieger
Module coordinator Director of Graduate Studies (Studiendekan)
Pre-requisites At least 45 ECTS of mandatory and elective modules must be completed, including the corresponding examinations.
Objectives With the Master Thesis the candidates are to demonstrate their ability to complete and document a well defined research project within a given time frame.
Content Tbd according to the thesis topic
Teaching methods Self-study and independent research work. A thesis supervisor is determined for each Master Thesis. This supervisor is available for consultations and, if necessary, guidance.
Assessment
- type of examination
- pre-qualifications

- Master Thesis
- Oral Presentation
Weights
4 (5)
1 (5)
Remarks -