Author(s): Antonija Harasti; Gordon Gilja; Matej Varga; Robert Fliszar

Linked Author(s): Antonija Harasti, Gordon Gilja, Robert Fliszar

Keywords: Scour; Monitoring; Riprap; ScourBuoy; R3PEAT

Abstract: Monitoring system is essential for improving the understanding of scour processes next to structures built in the riverine environment. State-of-the-art review shows a lack of field scour measurements due to expensive specialized equipment, time-consuming surveys, and difficulties in data acquirement during floods. However, the development of remote sensing over the last 40 years has led to availability of high-quality geospatial data that can be used to obtain accurate 3D physical characteristics data in riverine environment. In bridge construction, it is common practice to place riprap erosion protection above the natural riverbed. While numerous studies focus on scour around bridge piers, very few of them explore the effect of riprap protection on downstream riverbed morphology. Recent studies show that such riprap protection significantly alters flow conditions compared to natural conditions and consequently deflects the scour hole downstream of the bridge. Therefore, the placement of monitoring instruments must be relocated downstream, eliminating solutions that are fixed on the bridge pier. This paper outlines the ScourBuoy innovative prototype for real-time scour monitoring, developed as a part of the R3PEAT project “Remote Real-time Riprap Protection Erosion AssessmenT on large rivers”, which investigates scour processes next to riprap protection. ScourBuoy is an adaptable floating system that can be anchored above the scour hole. It is equipped with an echo sounder, low-cost multi-GNSS dual-frequency device, compass, and motion sensor which collect depth, temperature, pitch and roll data, as well as absolute 3D positioned orientation. All sensors and devices of the system are integrated into a buoy which was built using a stainless-steel tube and waterproof housing. For the reasons above, Scour Buoy provides a real-time scour monitoring alternative for measurements and research at the specific locations affected by scour. Acknowledgment: “This work has been supported in part by Croatian Science Foundation under the project R3PEAT (UIP-2019-04-4046)“

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/IAHR-39WC252171192022796

Year: 2022