Sensitivity Analysis of the Inclinometer Line Current Profiling System.

Abstract

An analysis of the sensitivity of ocean current profiles measured by an inclinometer line to errors in input variables and parameters is presented. These include tension, drag coefficient, line weight density, line diameter and measured angles. Starting with the basic three dimensional equilibrium equations of a line subject to spatially varying currents, the methods of computer analyses are outlined. A procedure for optimizing system design tension to yield minimum current error is developed and results plotted. It is shown that the calculated current error is most sensitive to the neglect of discrete weight (or buoyancy) points. Drag coefficient currently is the parameter of greatest uncertainty. Comparative results from a deep water observation near Bermuda in February 1973 show the computed currents from an inclinometer line contrasted with the current readings from a rotor (Aanderaa) instrument which was integral with the line. (Modified author abstract)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1973
Accession Number
AD0771454

Entities

People

  • Scott C. Daubin

Organizations

  • Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Buoyancy
  • Coefficients
  • Computers
  • Deep Water
  • Diameters
  • Equations
  • Integrals
  • Mathematics
  • Observation
  • Ocean Currents
  • Oceans
  • Physical Properties
  • Sensitivity
  • Three Dimensional
  • Uncertainty

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Geodesy
  • Oceanography.
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics