ACIT4012 Bio-inspired Systems Course description

This course offers students an in-depth understanding of the human body's systems from an engineering perspective. Through a systematic bio-inspired design methodology, it examines how engineers can leverage their technical expertise to analyze, interpret, and interact with biological systems. This interdisciplinary approach is particularly relevant in today’s rapidly advancing technological landscape, where innovation is increasingly driven by insights from biology—especially in fields such as electronics, bioelectronics, medical technology, and artificial intelligence.

A foundational introduction to medical terminology is also provided in this course, enabling students to better comprehend the language and reasoning used by healthcare professionals. This knowledge is essential for effective interdisciplinary collaboration in future health-related projects and enhances the ability to engage with scientific literature in medicine and healthcare.

By exploring the structure and function of the human body, students are encouraged to apply their knowledge creatively, whether by developing novel technologies or improving existing systems through bio-inspired design. The course includes guest lectures from both academic and industry experts, offering diverse perspectives and real-world insights.

ELPE1300 Electrical Circuits or any relevant courses

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have achieved the following learning outcomes, categorized into knowledge, skills, and general competence:

Knowledge

The student will:

• gain a deeper understanding of the various systems of the human body, their functions, and their interactions with the environment—such as sensory organs—and how these can be modeled and described from an engineering perspective.
• learn how engineering principles can be applied to biological systems to develop innovative solutions and technologies inspired by the human body or nature.
• understand the relationship between biological systems and existing technologies.

Skills

The student will:

• develop strong problem-solving skills by applying engineering methods to complex biological systems.
• be able to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals in interdisciplinary projects and interpret scientific literature in the field

General Competence

The student will:

• develop a systems-level perspective and apply it to the creation of innovative technologies
• strengthen critical thinking skills, particularly in applying engineering principles to biological systems—an essential capability for solving complex problems and fostering innovation
• cultivate an awareness of the ethical considerations associated with bio-inspired technological systems, including emerging AI technologies
• comparing biological solutions to engineering systems will foster a deeper interest and understanding of both engineering and medicine, and motivate continued learning and professional development
• acquire hands-on experience in using technology to measure and analyze biological systems, and apply this knowledge to the development of future technologies.

The course is structured around lectures, exercises, and self-study. Students are expected to make use of available digital tools, recommended reading materials, and lecture content for independent learning.

The following required coursework must be approved before the student can take the exam

• Group Project Submission

Students will work in groups of up to four to deliver a project report in three phases:

• Phase 1: Development and presentation of the methodology (deadline within the first two weeks of the course).
• Phase 2: Exploration and discussion of approaches toward a bio-inspired system (deadline within the next two weeks of the course).
• Phase 3: Completion of a comprehensive report, limited to a maximum of 15,000 words (excluding the first page and references), structured as a final deliverable with a deadline one week before the end of the course.

1. Individual Assignments

Specific to master students in this course: each student will get the chance to complete five individual assignments, each consisting of a 1-page written delivery with graphs and plots, as needed.

Assignments must be submitted within one week.

Individual written exam under supervision, 3 hours.

The exam result may be appealed.

In the event of a re-sit or postponed exam, an oral exam may be used. If an oral exam is used, the exam result cannot be appealed.

None

Grade scale A-F

One internal examiner. An external examiner is used regularly.

Prof. Peyman Mirtaheri

The course overlaps with ELI2900 (10 ECTS), RAB1200 (7 ECTS), ELTS2500 (9 ECTS) and ELI2100(9ECTS).