GIS-HEC-RAS Interface for Floodplain Encroachment Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing HEC-RAS system for analyzing floodplains and encroachments is time-consuming and labor-intensive due to its manual data entry and lack of integration with GIS systems, leading to inefficiencies and errors in floodplain encroachment computations.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface (GUI) is developed to integrate with the HEC-RAS engine, allowing for automated data analysis and visualization of floodplain encroachments, reducing manual data entry and trial-and-error methods, and enabling real-time computation and viewing of results within a single interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual data entry and paper-based maps are used in the HEC-RAS system, then the system can process floodplain encroachment analysis, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses GIS (Geographic Information System) to create digital copies of floodplain maps and encroachment data, replacing manual paper-based maps. The GIS system automatically extracts geometric data from digital map representations, eliminating the need for manual data entry into HEC-RAS while maintaining accurate floodplain analysis capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary software layer that connects GIS and HEC-RAS systems. This intermediary automatically transfers data between the two systems, eliminating manual data entry and reducing errors. The intermediary processes geometric data from GIS and formats it for HEC-RAS input, significantly reducing the time and labor required for floodplain encroachment analysis
2Reliability
If the HEC-RAS system is used with paper-based maps, then floodplain analysis can be performed, but errors occur due to lack of integration and manual data transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of GIS and HEC-RAS systems through a unified software interface. The integrated system allows users to work with floodplain data in a single environment, combining the mapping capabilities of GIS with the hydraulic analysis capabilities of HEC-RAS. This integration eliminates errors associated with manual data transfer between separate systems while maintaining the analytical rigor of HEC-RAS
3Productivity
If manual trial-and-error methods are used for encroachment analysis, then results can be obtained, but the process is labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary automated calculations and simulations before final encroachment determination. The integrated GIS-HEC-RAS system pre-processes floodplain data, pre-calculates hydraulic parameters, and pre-evaluates multiple encroachment scenarios. This preliminary action reduces the need for iterative trial-and-error methods, as the system provides informed initial results that guide final decision-making
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automated feedback mechanisms that provide real-time results and recommendations during the encroachment analysis process. The system continuously monitors analysis progress, compares results against regulatory criteria, and automatically adjusts parameters to optimize outcomes. This feedback loop eliminates manual trial-and-error by providing intelligent, automated guidance throughout the analysis process
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture provide the ability to define a floodplain encroachment. River reach and station information are received into a geographic information system (GIS). Floodplain encroachment values are defined using a graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI provides a simultaneous view of station identifiers for each station for which the floodplain encroachment is to be defined, profiles defined for each of the station identifiers, a method identification corresponding to each of the defined profiles, and a target water surface elevation change for each profile. The values are provided to a HEC-RAS engine which outputs analysis results that are simultaneously displayed in the GUI with the other information. The analysis results include a water surface elevation change, a top width, and a velocity for each profile-station pair. Users can modify the values and dynamically view the results from HEC-RAS in the GUI.