Determining propeller induced erosion alongside quay walls in harbours using Artificial Neural Networks

In shallow waters, such as those found close to berth structures, the wash from a manoeuvring ship’s propeller can cause erosion of the seabed. This erosion can be increased if the wash intersects a berth structure. A number of researchers have undertaken model studies and used regression analysis to develop predictive relationships for the scouring action. This paper presents an experimental investigation with Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), used to analyse the results. The purpose of using ANNs was to examine the prediction accuracy of the Networks in comparison with previous regression analysis methods. ANNs were found to provide a more accurate method of predicting propeller wash scour than the equations presented by previous investigators.

► Experimental investigation of scour from ship’s propellers. ► The presence of berthing structures has been included. ► Limitations of standard linear regression analysis are outlined. ► Use of ANNs as a convenient and accurate prediction tool is investigated. ► Comparison of predictive methods is given.