Calculation and validation of Critical Water Depth of Open Channels by Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm and HEC-RAS software

One of the important features of open channels hydraulic analysis is critical water depth that its determination in many cases is essential. In this research study, through conversion of critical depth equation to an objective function and then its minimization by using Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm, we calculate critical depth in open channels. Comparing the results for some regular geometric cross sections with semi-empirical relationships and Genetic algorithm results presented in the past, indicate high accuracy and no restriction of this method in determining critical depth of flow. In this research study we investigated application of this method for analysis of irregular and asymmetrical cross sections critical depth. In order to verify the results of the model presented in the irregular and asymmetric cross-sectional channel used the HEC-RAS software, the results of the flow analysis indicated the high accuracy of the PSO model in determining the critical depth. Furthermore this algorithm can be used to deal with other optimization problems in hydraulic engineering.

Keywords:

Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm , Open Channel , Critical Water Depth , Cross Section , HEC-RAS software