Chapter 8
Laboratory Measurement
and Analysis
“The correct interpretation of a set of measurements from an
engineering or scientific experiment is often more difficult than
performing the tests and obtaining the observations. ” ... Robert
Y. Hudson (1979)
8.1 Laboratory Measurements
8.1.1 Introduction
Visual observation of coastal engineering physical models is> an imp
aspect of every model study because observations can provi e p Y
sight. However, most laboratory studies would be pointless i we i
have a reliable means of measuring the characteristics of t e y ro y
processes and the ensuing model response. Only with accura e m
ments can we use physical models and laboratory expenmen a io
port theories or solve engineering problems beyond our t eore
.
For example, linear wave theory is used extensively in coasta
g
because laboratory measurements have indicated it is air y acc
outside its theoretical limitations.
.
_nrrpct
Hudson’s quote at the beginning of this chapter is undeniable, c
interpretation of measured results is indeed often verY
measure
other hand, failure to make correct measurements, or ai ure
the right parameter at the right spatial location, wi sure
interpretation attempted from the measurements, no
Laboratory Measurement
and Analysis
“The correct interpretation of a set of measurements from an
engineering or scientific experiment is often more difficult than
performing the tests and obtaining the observations. ” ... Robert
Y. Hudson (1979)
8.1 Laboratory Measurements
8.1.1 Introduction
Visual observation of coastal engineering physical models is> an imp
aspect of every model study because observations can provi e p Y
sight. However, most laboratory studies would be pointless i we i
have a reliable means of measuring the characteristics of t e y ro y
processes and the ensuing model response. Only with accura e m
ments can we use physical models and laboratory expenmen a io
port theories or solve engineering problems beyond our t eore
.
For example, linear wave theory is used extensively in coasta
g
because laboratory measurements have indicated it is air y acc
outside its theoretical limitations.
.
_nrrpct
Hudson’s quote at the beginning of this chapter is undeniable, c
interpretation of measured results is indeed often verY
measure
other hand, failure to make correct measurements, or ai ure
the right parameter at the right spatial location, wi sure
interpretation attempted from the measurements, no