Parameter estimation for suspended sediment transport processes under random waves

This paper presents a parameter estimation method for suspended sediment tr ansport processes subject to random wave environments. An objective functio n was constructed based on measurements of suspended sediment concentration profiles and the governing equation of sediment transport. The Chebyshev l east square method was employed to approximate the process parameters, i.e. vertical eddy diffusivity (epsilon) and net vertical velocity (w). The obj ective function of sediment transport processes with Chebyshev's parameters is well posed and does not require boundary conditions. First, second, and third order epsilon and w Chebyshev orthogonal functions were determined f or monochromatic (MONO), narrow-banded (NBR) and broad-banded (BBR) random wave conditions. In the BBR and NBR conditions, the best fit Chebyshev appr oximations of epsilon and w were 2nd degree, while the best approximations in the MONO condition were 2nd degree for epsilon and 1st degree for w. The Chebyshev method provides a quick, accurate and direct estimation of two p rime parameters in sediment transport dynamics. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B .V. All rights reserved.