Non-Intersecting Cross-Section Generation for Stream Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating hydraulic models of stream networks are inefficient and inaccurate due to the need for manual correction of planar cross-sections, which often intersect and fail to account for complex stream geometries, especially in sinuous reaches and floodplains, leading to incomplete and inaccurate floodplain analysis.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for generating one-dimensional hydraulic models that automatically creates non-intersecting cross-sections by generating discrete stream points and normal vectors, using interpolation to avoid intersections and adjust cross-sections to meet hydraulic modeling requirements, including extending to within a threshold width of the floodplain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If planar cross-sections are generated perpendicular to the stream centerline, then the cross-sections are easy to generate, but they intersect with each other and with the centerline in sinuous reaches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature by generating cross-sections that follow the natural meandering path of the stream rather than using straight perpendicular lines. The cross-sections are curved to accommodate the sinuous geometry of the stream, preventing intersections while maintaining accuracy in representing the actual stream-floodplain interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar cross-sections to three-dimensional spatial cross-sections that can curve and adapt to the stream's path. By incorporating the longitudinal dimension and allowing cross-sections to follow the stream's meandering course, the method avoids intersections while accurately representing the floodplain geometry.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual correction is performed to fix intersecting cross-sections, then the accuracy of floodplain analysis is improved, but the time and labor required significantly increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating non-intersecting cross-sections through its algorithmic approach. The method inherently prevents intersections by using the stream centerline geometry to guide cross-section placement, eliminating the need for manual detection and correction of intersecting cross-sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the generated cross-sections are automatically checked for intersections, and the algorithm adjusts subsequent cross-section placements based on this feedback. This closed-loop approach ensures accuracy while maintaining automation, preventing the time loss associated with manual correction.
3Reliability
If cross-sections are generated to cover the entire floodplain, then the completeness of floodplain analysis is improved, but the complexity of ensuring non-intersection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by first establishing the stream centerline and its geometric properties before generating cross-sections. This preliminary step provides a foundation that guides subsequent cross-section placement, ensuring they follow the stream's path and naturally avoid intersections while covering the entire floodplain.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the floodplain analysis into discrete cross-sections spaced at regular intervals along the stream centerline. This segmentation approach allows the complex problem of covering the entire floodplain to be broken down into manageable segments, each generated independently following the same algorithmic rules, reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and computer program product is provided for obtaining stream network data including a stream network elevation for one or more streams, a plurality of centerlines, and flow information in the stream network, generating a discrete stream points corresponding to a point of a regular interval along a centerline of each stream in the stream network, automatically generating a plurality of normal vectors originating from a unique starting point selected from the plurality of discrete stream points, generating a plurality of non-intersecting cross-sections in the stream network, each non-intersecting cross-section comprising a curve based on the flow information and originating from the normal vectors, each non-intersecting cross-section configured to avoid intersection with each point in its own cross-section while avoiding intersection with points in each of the other non-intersecting cross-sections, and automatically adjusting the plurality of cross-sections to satisfy a hydraulic modeling requirement.