Framework for estimating uncertainty of ADCP measurements from a moving boat by standardized uncertainty analysis

In spite of the extensive use of acoustic-Doppler current profilers (ADCP) for measurement of velocity and discharge in open-channel and riverine environments, a rigorous methodology for estimating ADCP discharge measurement uncertainty that follows current engineering standards for uncertainty analysis is not yet available. In this paper, we apply the broadly accepted engineering standard for uncertainty analysis put forth by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics in 1995 (AIAA) to develop a framework for the estimation of uncertainty in ADCP measurements from a moving boat. First, we summarize the terminology and methodology of measurement uncertainty analysis and review the data reduction equations used by ADCPs to estimate the total discharge in measurements from a moving boat. Second, we discuss briefly the various elemental error sources that contribute to the uncertainties of the ADCP measured variables, which in turn contribute to the total uncertainty of ADCP discharge measurements. In discussing the elemental errors, we look into what determines their uncertainties and whether they can be evaluated using available information. We then apply the guidelines of the AIAA standard to develop an analytical framework for propagating the uncertainties from the elemental sources to obtain the total uncertainty of ADCP discharge measurements from a moving boat. CE Database subject headings: Open channel flow; River flow; Flow measurement; Uncertainty principles; Small crafts; Velocity.