Overview
The CERSL features a large-scale sediment flume to allow fundamental and applied research of processes in headwater streams and mountain rivers with a unique combination of scale, instrumentation, computer-control and the planned ability to interface with researchers through the internet.
Capabilities
The flume is 20 meters long, with a width of 2m and a depth of 1.2m; the maximum water discharge is 1.1 m3/s (or 40 cfs); maximum slope of the flume is 10%. A distinguishing feature is the ability to feed sand and gravel in an open circuit (non-recirculating) mode. The flume is designed to be environmentally sensitive. For example, water is recirculated through a large sump and the pumps are lubricated by water rather than oil.
Instrumentation for the flume includes stereoscopic PIV, ADV, optical and acoustic cameras, and an optical bed mapping system. A real-time ultrasonic bed mapping system is under development. Instrumentation may be located anywhere in the flume by a three-axis computer controlled platform.
Undergraduate Capstone Design Projects
The UI Senior Capstone Design Program has an outstanding track record in designing equipment for the CERSL. Recent examples include the design of the sediment trap system and the design of a computer controlled, three axis, instrumentation platform.
Current Projects
Current Projects include, "Physical Modeling of a Wave Generating Structure for the Boise River Recreation Park", "Implementation and Testing of a Sediment Trap System for the CERSL", and "Development and Testing of a Real-Time Bathymetry System for the CERSL".
Future Plans
- The CERSL is being developed to have the capability for real-time collaboration with researchers from multiple locations outside Idaho.
- The first moving bed sediment transport experiments are planned for 2009.
