The behavior of fluid-structure systems can be described by partial differential equations in space and time. Major task is to conceive models which are able to describe the interaction processes on the boundary surfaces between the system components.
It has been common practice for standard problems to describe each system component of a fluid-structure system in a separate way. This usually has been done by employing static or dynamic coefficients averaged over the entire boundary surface. However, this model does not describe the system behavior correctly once there is high energy transfer associated with the movement of the boundary surfaces between the two components. In this case it often becomes necessary to examine the behavior of the combined fluid-structure system.
The research program of the Graduate College is aimed at developing mechanical models and numerical solution techniques for fluid-structure interaction problems and at studying thoroughly the phenomena observed in fluid-structure systems. Cooperation of the departments of Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science guarantees effective, systematic, and interdisciplinary research on current problems relevant on a technological background.
Generally, scholars will be closely supervised by two or more professors from different disciplines. In courses, lecture series, seminars and workshops, students accumulate a fundamental scientific background in all disciplines necessary for successful research work, up to and beyond their initial education at other academic institutions.
The Graduate College also wants to include non-academic research institutions into their activities.