Optimizing geometric dimensions and vortex breaker of morning glory spillway using genetic algorithm

Abstract

This research aims at optimizing geometric dimensions and vortex breaker of morning glory spillway using a genetic algorithm (a case study of a physical model of San Louis Forebay Dam in California, USA). In this research, two types of morning glory spillway, one with a smooth and the other with a stepped body, with different vortex breakers and different arrangements, are experimentally tested and modeled. In addition, a physical model, similar to the model of San Louis Forebay Dam located in California in the USA, was selected. This research optimized discharge coefficient and morning glory spillway height parameters using a genetic algorithm. The results show that tunnel radius parameters and inner and outer radii of the spillway crest, radius 90-degree bend, the length of the tunnel, and the height of the spillway crest can be optimized based on the total volume of the spillway using a genetic algorithm. In addition, the new values obtained for these parameters, if used, lead to a decrease equal to 39% of the volumes of concreting, which, in turn, reduces the building costs of the physical model.