Uncertainty Model for In Situ Quality Control of Stationary ADCP Open-Channel Discharge Measurement

Abstract

This paper presents a relative standard uncertainty (RSU) model for stationary acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) open-channel discharge measurement. The model is a combination of the Type A and Type B evaluation of uncertainty and complies with the latest methodology for evaluating uncertainty in measurements implemented by the International Organization for Standardization. The Type A uncertainty component in the model accounts for the site-specific measurement conditions such as ambient turbulence; ADCP pitch, roll, and heading variations/errors; and the system noise of the ADCP used at the site. It is determined by statistical analysis of ADCP subsection ensemble discharge data. The model provides an in situ tool for quality control of a stationary ADCP discharge measurement.