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CHAPTER 6. SEDIMENT TRANSPORT MODELS
Figure 6.1: Movable-Bed Model of Beach Profile Development.
prototype situation, and can often be difficult to conduct correctly. Also,
site-specific model results are strictly applicable only to the prototype situation being modeled. Generic movable-bed models attempt to characterize
the main features of a particular sediment transport process so that design
guidance or mathematical algorithms can be developed for engineering use.
A compromise between the fixed-bed and movable-bed model occurs
when sediment tracer materials are used in fixed-bed models as a qualitative indicator of sediment erosion and deposition areas. Useful information
from tracer studies includes sediment paths in the vicinity of an entrance
channel, potential erosion zones downdrift of coastal structures, and the
direction and paths of offshore sediment transport.
6.1.3 Requirements of Movable-Bed Models
Comprehensive planning and serious thought are required when conducting
movable-bed scale model studies, and adequate time and funds for the study
must be available to have any chance of success (Hudson, et al. 1979).