This thesis examines the application of two evolutionary computation techniques to two different aspects of open channel flow. The first part of the work is concerned with evaluating the ability of an evolutionary algorithm to provide insight and guidance into the correct magnitude and trend of the three parameters required in order to successfully apply a quasi 2D depth averaged Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) model to the flow in prismatic open channels. The RANS modeled adopted is the Shiono Knight Method (SKM) which requires three input parameters in order to provide closure, i.e. the friction factor (\(f\)), dimensionless eddy viscosity (λ) and a sink term representing the effects of secondary flow (Γ). A non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) is used to construct a multiobjective evolutionary based calibration framework for the SKM from which conclusions relating to the appropriate values of \(f\), λ and Γ are made. The framework is applied to flows in homogenous and heterogeneous trapezoidal channels, homogenous rectangular channels and a number of natural rivers. The variation of \(f\), λ and Γ with the wetted parameter ratio (\(P_b\)/\(P_w\)) and panel structure for a variety of situations is investigated in detail. The situation is complex: \(f\) is relatively independent of the panel structure but is shown to vary with P\(_b\)/P\(_w\), the values of λ and Γ are highly affected by the panel structure but λ is shown to be relatively insensitive to changes in \(P_b\)/\(P_w\). Appropriate guidance in the form of empirical equations are provided. Comparing the results to previous calibration attempts highlights the effectiveness of the proposed semi-automated framework developed in this thesis. The latter part of the thesis examines the possibility of using genetic programming as an effective data mining tool in order to build a model induction methodology. To this end the flow over a free overfall is exampled for a variety of cross section shapes. In total, 18 datasets representing 1373 experiments were interrogated. It was found that an expression of form \(h_c\)=A\(h_e\)\(^{B\sqrt S_o}\), where \(h_c\) is the critical depth, \(h_e\) is the depth at the brink, \(S_o\) is the bed slope and A and B are two cross section dependant constants, was valid regardless of cross sectional shape and Froude number. In all of the cases examined this expression fitted the data to within a coefficient of determination (CoD) larger than 0.975. The discovery of this single expression for all datasets represents a significant step forward and highlights the power and potential of genetic programming.

The upgrade of urban water distribution systems (UWDS) amidst uncertain global change pressures is a challenging problem. To deal with this dilemma water utilities require approaches that enable UWDS to be transitioned at a minimal technical and socio-economic impact as uncertainties become known. A review of approaches for upgrading UWDS shows that existing cost models are skewed towards operation and maintenance costs without consideration for future transitionability. This thesis describes approaches for the sustainable transition of UWDS and their application on case studies. The thesis develops a conceptual framework for the analysis of UWDS transitions. It then develops a Socio-economic Impact Indicator (SII) framework based on Multi Criteria Decision Analysis and the Analytical Hierarchical Process to estimate impacts in an urban area due to UWDS transitions. It also develops an approach for modelling socio-technical transitions based on multinomial logistic regression. The thesis then develops an UWDS transition design approach that considers not only operation and maintenance costs (leakage and burst costs) but also transitionability and future socio-technical impacts costs. The developed approaches have been tested on case studies as proof of concept. Maximum cost saving can be realised when existing UWDS are upgraded with consideration of future UWDS transitionability.

Accurate modelling, both numerical and physical, is vital to further our understanding of flow in rivers. This thesis examines both methods of flow applied to two distinct problems; numerical modelling of flow in simple channels with heterogeneous roughness and physical modelling of flow in compound channels with skewed floodplains. In this thesis, the Shiono and Knight Method (SKM) is applied to homogeneously and heterogeneously roughened channels. The SKM is shown to be capable of accurately predicting the lateral distributions of depth-averaged velocity and boundary shear stress for both roughness types. Furthermore, the percentage shear force on the wall of a channel is accurately obtained for both roughness types and guidance is given as to the choice of the three calibration coefficients the model requires, namely f, l and G representing friction, eddy viscosity and secondary flow respectively. Finally, physical modelling has been undertaken on compound channels with skewed floodplains in addition to a full review of the work undertaken at a larger scale in the Flood Channel Facility. As a result appropriate expressions for shear force and apparent shear forces acting on the horizontal and vertical interfaces have been established.

The frequency and intensity of flooding has increased over the last few decades. The UK is not an exception, despite large amounts of money invested every year in flood risk management, flooding is a prevalent issue in the country causing millions of losses every year. In this thesis we contribute to debate on the economic valuation of flood risk in the UK from a household perspective using a non-market valuation approach from the housing market. In the first chapter we investigate the capitalisation of flood risk in property prices by means of a meta-analysis. In the second and third chapters we use a repeatsales specification of a hedonic model to investigate the capitalisation of flood defences and the effect of flooding in the price of properties in England. The results suggest that the current benefit estimates used by the UK Government to determine the allocation of resources to flood relief projects results in a misallocation of resources. We highlight the importance of rethinking the strategy for flood risk management in the UK. Our results provide a sound economic basis to guide the allocation of resources for flood alleviation strategies in a socially efficient way.

Data collected in a large scale laboratory wave flume by a research team using the autonomous bottom boundary layer rig, (STABLE) was the subject of this study. The near bed suspension processes were examined relating them to the hydrodynamics. The deployment of a number of sensors allowed the assessment of their individual performance including the analysis of the pump-sampling and acoustic concentration data. Wavelet analysis was applied to identify the influence of STABLE on the vortex ripples in the vicinity of the rig. It revealed that the modification of the ripple dimensions around STABLE's feet was very localised. Sediment suspension was found to be strongly correlated to wave groups. The measured concentrations and empirical models based on convective and diffusive entrainment mechanisms were compared. A model based on the jet like ejection of particles between a vortex pair was developed and showed that lifting of sediments up to ten ripple heights above the bed was possible. A second model, capable of simulating the pumping effect, included this entrainment process to simulate the suspension under wave groups taking the suspension history into account. The behaviour of neutrally buoyant particles in a laboratory wave flume was videoed and revealed jet like ejections and horizontal movement over two or more ripple wavelengths.

The theoretical and experimental investigation of the novel in-line CMOS image sensor was performed. This sensor is aimed to investigate particle size distribution, particle concentration and shape in hydraulic liquid in order to implement the proactive maintenance of hydraulic equipment. The existing instruments such as automatic particle counters and techniques are not sufficiently enough to address this task because of their restricted sensitivity, limit of concentration to be measured and they cannot determine particle shape. Other instruments cannot be used as inline sensors because they are not resistant to the arduous conditions such as high pressure and vibration. The novel mathematical model was proposed as it is not possible to use previously developed techniques based on using optical system and complicated algorithms. This model gives the output signal of the image sensor depending on the particle size, its distance from the light source (LED) and image sensor. Additionally, the model takes into account the limited exposure time and particle track simulation. The results of simulation based on the model are also performed in thesis. On the basis of the mathematical model the image processing algorithms were suggested in order to determine particle size even when this size is lower than pixel size. There are different approaches depending on the relation between the size of the particle and the pixel size. The approach to the volume of liquid sample estimation was suggested in order to address the problem of low accuracy of concentration measurement by the conventional automatic particle counters based on the single photodiode. Proposed technique makes corrections on the basis of particle velocity estimation. Approach to the accuracy estimation of the sensor was proposed and simulation results are shown. Generally, the accuracy of particle size and concentration measurement was considered. Ultimately, the experimental setup was used in order to test suggested techniques. The mathematical model was tested and the results showed sufficient correlation with the experiment. The zinc dust was used as a reference object as there are the particles within the range from 1 to 25 microns which is appropriate to check the sensitivity. The results of experiments using reference instrument showed the improved sensitivity and accuracy of volume measured compared to the reference one.

Nesta dissertação estão apresentados os principais conceitos teóricos envolvidos na ação dos jatos formados em dissipadores tipo salto esqui sobre fossa de erosão pré-escavada, desde o trajeto do jato em sua fase aérea e em sua fase submersa, dando especial ênfase às pressões hidrodinâmicas e sua caraterização junto ao fundo da bacia. Para estudar experimentalmente a ação dos jatos nas bacias de dissipação, utilizou-se de um modelo físico de escala 1:100 construído no Laboratório de Obras Hidráulicas do IPH/UFRGS com ensaios de diferentes vazões e diferentes profundidades de fossas pré-escavadas. Os dados foram extraídos dos ensaios no modelo físico através de vasta instrumentação, utilizando-se comportas, pontas linimétricas, piezômetros, sensores de pressão, imagens e outros equipamentos. Foi realizada uma análise criteriosa dos dados gerados no modelo físico a partir das imagens do jato na sua trajetória aérea e no escoamento do jato em sua fase submersa, comparando os dados do modelo aos resultados obtidos por métodos tradicionais de cálculo. Também foram analisados os dados de pressão gerados durante os ensaios, sendo apresentados os resultados relativos às pressões médias e às pressões dinâmicas. As pressões dinâmicas observadas no modelo físico foram comparadas com as calculadas por meio de metodologia teórica abordada na bibliografia com a finalidade de avaliar a qualidade dessa metodologia para aplicação em projetos de engenharia, onde se observou grandes diferenças de magnitude da pressão quando em colchões rasos, e diferenças de distribuição de pressão ao longo do fundo da bacia de dissipação, principalmente quando em colchões profundos. No sentido de ajustar a metodologia aplicada, foi proposta a variação de parâmetros que regulam a forma do bulbo de pressões e a aplicação de um coeficiente de amortecimento de pressões, sendo que assim foi possível melhorar significativamente a distribuição e a magnitude das pressões calculadas devido à ação dos jatos no fundo da bacia de dissipação. Os resultados se mostram satisfatórios até determinada distância após o pico de pressão provocado pelo jato, sendo que após este ponto os efeitos de ressalto hidráulico prevalecem e devem ser pesquisados em estudos futuros. / In this dissertation are presented the main theorical concepts involved in the action of the jets formed in ski jump spillways on stilling basins type pre-excavated scour hole, from the path of the jet in its air stage and in his submerged phase, with particular emphasis on hydrodynamic pressures and its characterization by the bottom of the basin. To experimentally study the action of the jets in stilling basins, was used a physical model in scale 1:100 built in Hydraulic Works Laboratory of IPH/UFRGS with experiments of different flow rates and different depths of pre-excavated scour hole. The data were extracted from experiments on the physical model through extensive instrumentation, using gates, piezometers, pressure sensors, images and other equipment. A careful analysis of the data generated in the physical model from the jet images in your path through the air was performed and the flow of the jet in its submerged phase, comparing the model data to the results obtained by traditional methods of calculation. The pressure data generated during the tests and presented the results for the mean pressures and dynamic pressures were also analyzed. Dynamic pressures observed in the physical model were compared with those calculated by means of theoretical methods for the purpose of evaluating the quality of this methodology for use in engineering projects, where we observed large differences in magnitude of pressure when in shallow water beds, and diferences in pressure distribution over the stilling basin bottom, especially when in deep water beds. In order to adjust the applied methodology, it was proposed to change parameters governing the shape of the pressure bulb and the application of a pressure damping coefficient, and thus was possible to significantly improved the distribution and magnitude of the calculated pressures due to action of the jets in the stilling basin bottom. The results have been satisfactory up to a certain distance after the peak pressure caused by the jet, and after this point the hydraulic jump effects prevail and should be investigated in future studies.

Ce travail de recherche est résultat d’une collaboration active entre les deux écoles d’architecture de Toulouse et le DICAAR de Cagliari qui explore la relation entre le paysage rural et le projet d’architecture. La choix d’une thèse qui se focalise sur le cas d’étude “local” se détache de la dimension de l’individu particulier, encarré comme cas typique de la Méditerranée, espace de condensation de nouvelles dynamiques agricoles liées au déplacement d’intérêt de la ville au village, avec les changements climatiques et ses influences sur l’architecture et les cultures constructives locales. La Sardaigne est un cas de recherche intéressant, soit pour la variété de son territoire, soit pour les changements climatiques qui voient une radicalisation progressive des conditions de l’intermittence de l’eau. La lecture des principes traditionnels de gestion de l’eau devient la base pour définir les instructions du projet qui doit comprendre la prévention des risques et la production de nouveaux espaces pour la campagne grâce à des techniques de gestion de l’eau. Les cas choisis sont situés sur les quatre rivières les plus importantes de la Sardaigne, qui ont été soumis à des phénomènes météorologiques extrêmes. Les projets sont basés sur la notion de temps, en particulier de la réversibilité de l’intervention, et de la définition de dispositifs légers. Dans la dernière section on résume une matrice des bonnes pratiques et des lignes directrices pour la gestion de l’eau et la gestion des terres qui est basée sur l’identification et l’analyse des questions critiques, le projet d’action qui utilise les technologies et la définition des espaces de qualité. Le projet doit se baser sur un concept de développement durable qui regarde une architecture qui se auto-soutiens, un projet de paysage qui peut produire par soi-même les ressources nécessaires. / This research is the result of an active collaboration between the two schools of architecture of Toulouse and the DICAAR of Cagliari, which explores the relationship between the rural landscape and the project. The research deals with architecture design in weak contexts, exploring the possibilities offered by water techniques in rural areas. The field survey is Sardinia, characterized by a difficult relationship with water, caused by intermittence that generates problems like drought and flooding. It is necessary to understand the rules of water and land management in order to develop a new operational line on the territory. Reflecting on traditional techniques in terms of standards intends to understand the primary management rules to be applied in the contemporary project, the construction details of the scale, but also on thescale of the urban network and territory, useful for the identification, prevention and management of risks. Reading the principles of management becomes the basis for defining project instructions which must include risk prevention and the production of new areas for the campaign through water management techniques. Selected case studies are located on the four most important rivers of Sardinia, which have historically been subjected to extreme weather events. The projects are based on the notion of time, in particular the reversibility of the intervention, with the construction of an abacus of good practices and new architectures based on the identification and analysis of critical issues, the action project that usestechnologies and the definition of quality spaces. The matrix reflects on a series of projects that addressed the relationship between technology and landscape in complex climatic conditions. The project must be based on a concept of sustainable development that looks at a self-supporting architecture, a landscape project that can produce by itself the resources.

Thesis (M.S.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering, 1980. / MICROFICHE COPY AVAILABLE IN ARCHIVES AND ENGINEERING. / Includes bibliographical references. / by Donald Ralph Petersen. / M.S.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar, in vitro, quantitativamente e qualitativamente, a estabilidade de um híbrido experimental em duas concentrações diferentes (concentrado e diluído) aplicado sobre a simulação de uma dentina sensível. Dentes molares humanos foram selecionados e tiveram suas coroas seccionadas abaixo do sulco oclusal de forma a obter espécimes de discos de dentina que foram planificados e polidos até atingirem a espessura de 1,0 milímetro. Os espécimes foram divididos em 4 grupos (n=9) de acordo com os tratamentos de superfície propostos: saliva artificial (SAL), adesivo dentinário autocondicionante (AD), híbrido experimental concentrado (TC) e híbrido experimental diluído na proporção de 1:3 (TD). Dois métodos foram empregados para avaliar a estabilidade: condutância hidráulica (permeabilidade dentinária) e microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Foi realizada a leitura da permeabilidade dentinária em 6 tempos experimentais: Mínima (sem tratamento), Máxima (com túbulos abertos), Tratamento (após aplicação dos respectivos tratamentos), Erosão (após 5 minutos de imersão em ácido cítrico 0,05M pH 3,8), Escovação (após escovação de 3900 ciclos) e Erosão Pós (repetição da erosão após o processo de escovação). A microscopia eletrônica de varredura foi realizada em espécimes de dentina com área central de aplicação dos tratamentos e tecido natural nas laterais para evidenciar as características da película aplicada. As leituras foram feitas após a aplicação dos tratamentos, após a erosão, após a escovação e após a erosão pós escovação, para todos os 4 tratamentos propostos. O teste de análise de variância (ANOVA) de Medidas Repetidas com 2 fatores de variação foi aplicado juntamente com o teste de comparações múltiplas pareadas (Tukey). Para permeabilidade dentinária todos os tratamentos reduziram a condutância hidráulica (Lp) em relação à Máxima. TC e TD apresentaram os menores valores (24% e 15%) respectivamente. O TD continuou apresentando valores semelhantes estatisticamente após a Erosão (36%), sendo estatisticamente semelhante ao TC (55%).. No tempo Escovação o TD apresentou Lp estatisticamente semelhante aos tempos Tratamento e Erosão. Todos os grupos apresentaram-se estatisticamente semelhantes entre os tratamentos nos tempos Escovação e Erosão Pós. A análise das MEVs evidencia túbulos dentinários com conteúdo no seu interior nos grupos TC e TD, mantendo-se durante todos os tempos experimentais. O AD apresentou uma película evidente, que começou a se destacar e exibir falhas a partir do tempo Erosão. Conclui-se que o TD apresentou o melhor comportamento sendo capaz de diminuir a permeabilidade dentinária, formando uma película fina, transparente, imperceptível, capaz de vedar (totalmente ou parcialmente) e penetrar dentro dos túbulos dentinários, resistindo aos desafios erosivos e abrasivos. / The aim of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, quantitatively and qualitatively, the stability of an experimental hybrid with two different concentrations (concentrated and diluted) applied at a simulation of a sensitive dentin. Human molar teeth were selected and their crowns were sectioned below the occlusal groove in order to obtain specimens of dentine disks that were ground flat and polished to achieve a thickness of 1.0 millimeter. The specimens were divided into 4 groups (n = 9) in accordance with proposed surface treatments: Artificial saliva (SAL) dentinal self-etching adhesive (AD), concentrated experimental hybrid (TC) and experimental hybrid diluted in the ratio 1: 3 (TD). Two methods were used to assess the stability: hydraulic conductance (dentin permeability) and scanning electron microscopy. The dentin permeability in 6 experimental times was carried out: Minimum (no treatment), Maximum (with open tubules), treatment (after application of their treatments), erosion (after 5 minutes of immersion in citric acid 0.05M pH 3, 8), brushing (brushing after 3900 cycles) and Post erosion (erosion was repeated after brushing). The scanning electron microscopy was performed on dentin specimens with a central area of application of treatments and natural tissues on the sides to show the film characteristics applied. Readings were made after application of treatments, after erosion, after brushing and after erosion after brushing, for all 4 treatments proposed. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures with two variation factors was applied with the multiple comparisons paired test (Tukey). For dentin all treatments reduced hydraulic conductance (Lp) in relation to Maximum. TC and TD showed the lowest values (24% and 15%) respectively. The TD continued to show statistically similar values after erosion (36%), being statistically similar to TC (55%). In brushing time the TD Lp was statistically similar to Treatment and erosion times. All groups were statistically similar between treatments in brushing and Post Erosion times. The analysis of SEM shows dentinal tubules with content inside on the TC and TD groups, remaining during all experimental period. AD presented a clear film, which began to stand out and show failure from erosion time. It follows that the TD had better behavior being able to decrease permeability of dentin by forming a thin film transparent, imperceptible, capable of sealing (fully or partially) and penetrate within the dentine tubules, resisting the erosive and abrasive challenges.