Visual Interactive Simulation, 7.5 Credits

Contents

This is an advanced course in interactive visual simulation methods. It goes into depth about the theoretical methods and should also give a good orientation about contemporary trends in research and industry. It will also give practical experience from implementation of methods and algorithms and simple applications. Much focus is on visual results and interactivity.

Part 1, theory, 3 credits
Models and algorithms covered include dynamic simulation of rigid bodies, particle systems, deformable materials, liquids and cloth. Methods covered include constraints and joints, linear complementarity, impulse methods, penalty methods, elasticity, mass-spring-models, computational geometry, numerical integration of differential equations and collision detection of geometric objects and particles. Also covered are measures of stability, scalability, precision and realism for interactive methods as well as software engineering of “physics engines”, connections to computer graphics, usability and productivity, software reuse and modularity.
Application areas include vehicle dynamics, bio mechanics, robotics, machineries, and industry areas such as computer games, training simulators, educational applications, virtual reality, design and prototyping, animated film and visual effects in movies.

Part 2, practice, 4.5 credits
Design, development and implementation of interactive visual simulation methods.

Expected learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After having completed the course the student will be able to:

• account for concepts and methods for programming applications with interactive visual and physical simulation (FSR 1)
• explain and account for both theoretical and practical limitations and opportunities with interactive visual simulation (FSR2)

Skills and abilities
After having completed the course the student will be able to:

• apply concepts and methods for programming applications with interactive visual and physical simulation (FSR 3)
• obtain and acquire new and required knowledge in the field of the course (FSR 4)
• explain, use, evaluate and develop software libraries ("physical motors") for visual interactive simulation (FSR5)

Required Knowledge

Univ: To be admitted you must have (or equivalent) 90 ECTS-credits including 60 ECTS-credits in Computing Science or 2 years of completed studies within a study programme (120 ECTS-credits). In both cases, at least 15 ECTS-credits in C-programming including a basic understanding of the Unix/Linux-systems (e.g. 5DV088 together with 5DV157 or 5DV158), at least 4.5 ECTS-credits in Scientific Computing, (e.g. 5DV005 or 5DV154) and at least 7.5 ECTS-credits in Computer Graphics (e.g. 5DV179).

Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper Secondary course English A/5. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures, demonstrations and lab exercises in computer labs, as well as supervision in connection with mandatory assignments. In the final report of the laboratory assignments, all assignments are integrated into a complete 3D scene with a variety of simulation components. The implementation of this takes up most of the course time. In addition to scheduled activities, individual work with the material is also required.

Examination modes

The examination of Part 1, theory, (FSR 1-4) takes place through a written exam in halls. On this part, one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3) or Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5).

The examination of Part 2, practice, (FSR 1-5) takes place through a number of mandatory assignments. The number of assignments varies depending on the degree of difficulty but is never more than five. On this part, the grades Fail (U) or Pass (G) are given.

On the whole course, one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3) or Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5) is given. In order to pass the entire course, all examinations and mandatory assignments must be approved. The grade constitutes a summary assessment of the results of the examination's various parts and is only taken when all required marks are approved.

A student who has passed an examination may not be re-examined in order to get a higher grade. A student who has taken two tests for a course or part of a course, without passing, has the right to have another examiner appointed, unless there exist special reasons (Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 6, section 22). Request for a new examiner is made to the head of the Department of Computing Science.

Examination based on this syllabus is guaranteed for two years after the first registration on the course. This applies even if the course is closed down and this syllabus has ceased to be valid.

TRANSFER OF CREDITS
Students have the right to be tried if prior education or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in the profession can be credited for the same education at Umeå University. Application for transfer of credits is submitted to the Student Services / Degree. For more information on credit transfer available at Umeå University's student web, www.student.umu.se, and the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 6). A refusal of crediting can be appealed (Higher Education chapter 12) to the University Appeals Board. This applies to the whole as part of the application for credit transfer is rejected.

Other regulations

In an exam, this course may not be included, in whole or in part, simultaneously with another course of similar content. If in doubt, consult the student counselors at the Department of Computer Science and / or program director of the study program.