Drip-screen rainfall simulators for hydro- and pedo-geomorphological research: The coventry experience

Seven case studies are presented, demonstrating the successful use of a lab oratory-based drip-screen rainfall simulator at Coventry University to inve stigate several hydrological, pedological and geomorphological problems. Th e results of previously unpublished studies are presented in full, while th e salient points of published studies are discussed. Synthesis of the exper imental results led to the recognition of various philosophical and practic al problems associated with the realistic simulation of rain, which need to be addressed in future research. Particular problems are posed by the vari ety of analytical approaches and simulator designs, as they impede meaningf ul inter-laboratory comparisons. It is argued that future improvements requ ire optimization, harmonization and standardization of analytical procedure s and rainfall simulators. An ideal approach would be the development of a European key laboratory to offer realistic and standardized simulation cond itions. Copyright (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.