New and improved channel cross section with piecewise linear or smooth sides

作者：Easa Said M^*

来源：Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, 2011, 38(6): 690-697.

DOI：10.1139/L11-037

• open channel
• section
• multi-segment linear sides
• horizontal bottom
• optimization model
• construction cost

This paper presents a new and improved channel cross section with m-segment linear sides and horizontal bottom (MSLS). For large m, the section sides become smooth curves, thus providing the designer with flexibility in using either piecewise linear or smooth channel sides with the same formulation. General simple formulas for the area and perimeter are presented for section sides with m linear segments. An optimization model, which implements the general formulas and minimizes the construction cost, is presented and applied using an example. For sections with piecewise linear sides, where the surface lining unit cost increases as the number of sides increases, the MRS section was found to be more economical than a section with two-segment linear sides when the rate of increase in cost is not large. The smooth MSLS was found to be always more economical than the two-segment parabolic side section and the parabolic side section. The MSLS, which is more economical, yet simpler, than other section types is useful for a wide range of applications involving small and large channels.

• 出版日期2011-6