The course deals with the computational science and engineering behind virtual 3D environments and simulators of cyber-physical systems, including vehicles, robots and biomechanical systems. The course uses time-discrete mechanics for rigid and flexible multibodies with articulation joints and contacts, physics-based modeling of sensors and actuators, as well as high-performance numerical algorithms and solvers for integrating digital physics with other software for analysis, testing, control and optimization. The course covers techniques for automated model calibration based on experimental data as well as generation of synthetic test and training data to critically analyze the capabilities and limitations of the simulated system and for deep learning. In the practical part of the course, a physics engine is used to create a full system simulator of a mechatronic system from CAD model, technical specifications, and experimental data. Using the simulator output, the system's control algorithms or design is improved.
University studies comprising at least 90 credits, including Analytical Mechanics, 7.5 credits, Data Structures and Algorithms 7.5 credits, Numerical Methods in Physics 7.5 credits, Modelling and Simulation 7.5 credits or equivalent. Proficiency in English and Swedish equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies. Requirements for Swedish only apply if the course is held in Swedish.
Academic credits
Applicants in some programs at Umeå University have guaranteed admission to this course. The number of places for a single course may therefore be limited.
Application code
UMU-53118
Application
The online application opens 15 September 2025 at 09:00 CET.
Application deadline is
15 October 2025. How to apply
Application and tuition fees
As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
