Radar water-level measurement for open channels
Date
2005
Authors
Fulford, Janice M., author
Davies, William J., author
U.S. Committee on Irrigation and Drainage, publisher
Journal Title
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Abstract
The U.S. Geological Survey is investigating the performance of radars used for water-level measurement. This paper presents data collected using the Design Analysis Associates H-360 radar sensor in the laboratory and in the field. (The use of firm, trade, and brand names in this report is for identification purposes only and does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Geological Survey.) Radar water-level measurements at field sites were compared either to pressure sensor or float measurements by using simple statistical comparisons and frequency analysis with Fourier transforms of the data. Laboratory testing checked the performance of the radar sensor over the operating temperature range. Field data comparison and laboratory temperature testing indicate that the unit has an accuracy of about 0.03 feet except for windy conditions, when errors of -0.30 feet can occur.
Description
Presented during the Third international conference on irrigation and drainage held March 30 - April 2, 2005 in San Diego, California. The theme of the conference was "Water district management and governance."